Lifestyle Business School

Let's Catch Up: A Big Adventure, Midlife Musings, a Perspective on Ambition and Silver Linings

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:45:00 GMT

This episode is more ‘catch up with a friend’ than strategy. In it, I share more about a big, exciting adventure coming up, my changing perspective on ambition and the silver linings that come from difficult circumstances.

✨ Follow for more

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

Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifestylebusinessschool

Behind the Scenes of My Latest Launch (Real Numbers)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:45:00 GMT

In this episode, I share three key numbers from my latest launch and how I will use these metrics to make important decisions about next steps.

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

Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@lifestylebusinessschool

Passive Income DOES Exist: How to Generate a $120k/yr Forever Salary From Your Lifestyle Business

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:31:36 GMT

[Series 3/3] In this episode, I break down how to set your lifestyle business up to generate high profits, and the math behind using that profit to generate a forever salary to make work option.

This is part three of the Lifestyle Business Operating System. Make sure to check out the previous two episodes in this series.

Check out my programs: https://lifestylebusiness.school/programs

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Instagram: / steviedillon_
Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com
Youtube: / @lifestylebusinessschool

How to Create a Lifestyle Business Plan, Stick to It and Track Your Progress to Achieve Your Goals

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT

[Series 2/3] In this episode, I break down how to ditch overwhelm and inaction, and swap it with a two hour a month Lifestyle Business Operating System.

This episode deep dives into part two of the Operating System, and breaks down how to plan, set a steady pulse to stay on track and also how track and measure your progress.

🎯 Watch the replay:

The Lifestyle Business Operating System - Earn Consistent Revenue Working 4 Hours a Day With a Dead Simple 2-Hour-a-Month Operating System: https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/qrmkpolb

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Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifestylebusinessschool

How to Ditch Overwhelm and (Realistically) Build a Lifestyle Business You Love

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:00:00 GMT

[Series 1/3] In this episode, I break down how to ditch overwhelm and inaction, and swap it with a two hour a month Lifestyle Business Operating System.

I deep dive into setting an inspiring lifestyle vision, ensuring your business model is capable of achieving it and how to develop a simple business system to bring it to life.

🎯 Free Live Class March 3:

The Lifestyle Business Operating System - Earn Consistent Revenue Working 4 Hours a Day With a Dead Simple 2-Hour-a-Month Operating System: https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/qrmkpolb

✨ Follow for more

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Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifestylebusinessschool

Industry Changes, Life Updates, Business Shifts and a New Lens on Creating Content

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I share more about why I decided to pause the pod and how my approach to content creation is shifting. I also share more about the shifts I have been in my business focus and why I am going all in on helping people take messy action.

✨ Follow for more

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

Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lifestylebusinessschool

🎯 Free Live Class

🎯 Free Live Class March 3:

The Lifestyle Business Operating System - Earn Consistent Revenue Working 4 Hours a Day With a Dead Simple 2-Hour-a-Month Operating System: https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/qrmkpolb

❌ Productivity Keeps You Stuck Working 40 to 60-Hour Work Weeks (Here's What to Focus On Instead)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 19:00:00 GMT

❌ Newsflash: Productivity is keeping you stuck on the "working all hours" hamster wheel.

The definition of productivity is, quite literally, the amount of output you produce. The more you can fit into a day, the more "productive" you are.

And as someone juggling a lot, achieving peak productivity used to feel like the holy grail for me.

"If only I could learn how to get more things done!" I used to think, "I can finally reach my endgame and FINALLY start working less!"

Sounds good in theory, buuuut...

Here's what happened.

I DID learn how to get more things done.

In fact, I managed to achieve more in a week than just about anyone else I knew.

And the BY PRODUCT of that?

Is that I was then able to fit even MORE in... and so the hamster wheel continued, faster and faster and faster.

Get more things done > Able to take on more things > Repeat.

I never ended up working LESS, I was just getting way more DONE in the hours I worked.

The more productive I was, the more I could do.

The more I could do, the more I could take on.

And because I had set "work times", what that meant is that I was never doing LESS... I was simply squeezing more and more in.

One day, I had a penny drop moment...

Maybe, I thought, it's not actually about getting more TASKS done in a day.

Maybe instead, it's installing more operational elegance into my business and how I do things SO THAT the business can be more effective, and ultimately need me less.

It was a defining moment, and in today's podcast episode, I am going to share with you five things that I started doing that finally got me OFF the productivity hamster wheel and towards the work/life balance I was doing it all for in the first place.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ PLAN;
✔️ Do Less;
✔️ Plan Tomorrow Today (Aaaand... If You Have a Team, Implement a Daily Huddle);
✔️ Time Block;
✔️ Measure Key Metrics;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at: www.thecoursecartel.com/189

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How I Swapped Clients For Courses

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Next up in our Throwback Thursday session, we revisit How I Swapped Clients For Courses!

"I don't have time...," says everyone, always.

We're all busy. Ten busy.

Throw a business and kids into the mix and you can dial that baby up to eleven and beyond.

But there's one thing I know for damn sure: Doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result isn't going to change that for you.

Let's dive in to today's throwback episode!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/103a

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Why We’re Rebranding — and Five Signs It Might Be Time for You to Consider a Business Rebrand, Too

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 19:00:00 GMT

What do you do when you start to feel that your brand no longer reflects the evolution and growth of your business?

When you start to feel, dare I say it, self-conscious when you’re asked about your business at a party, sure that the name “Stevie Says Social” will diminish your authority or how seriously you’re taken at networking events?

When friends and family still ask you to try and help them get into their Instagram account, because your name still has “social” in it despite NOT teaching social media at all — “Don’t you have a little social media business — I only have 50 followers too, and I’m hoping you can help?!” they say, innocently.

And when that nagging feeling, deep down, suggests a growing disconnect between the time, effort and importance you place on your business, and the way it is viewed in the eyes of those hearing “Stevie Says Social” for the first time.

You re-brand, that’s what — and this year, that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Right now? My brand kind of feels like I’m still getting around in the same outfit that I wore when I was a gawky teenager. I feel a sense of urgency to “grow up”, and for the vision that I have for my business, the importance that I place on it and the true impact that it has on so many lives through the people that we serve.

I’m tired of feeling silly saying “Stevie Says Social” when someone asks what my business name is.

I’m READY to step into bigger shoes and build a vision that doesn’t depend solely on me.

And, if I’m really honest? I feel held hostage by an identity that doesn’t fit anymore.

And so, as I embark on MY branding and business evolution (of which MUCH more will be shared later on in the year), today’s podcast episode is dedicated to five signs that might be an indication to YOU that it’s time to do the same.

Here’s five signs that it might be time to rebrand your business:

✔️ You’ve experienced a significant business evolution (but your brand hasn’t kept up)
✔️ You’re not proud to share your brand with strangers
✔️ Your mission has grown, and no longer fits the container of your brand
✔️ You no long want it to be just about you
✔️ A change is as good as a holiday

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/160

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How Sherrie Achieved Our Highest EVER Launch Result In Her First Digital Course Launch

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 06 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Want to know how Sherrie achieved our highest EVER launch result in her first digital course launch?

Sherrie Storor holds the title for the highest conversion rate of any digital course that has been birthed through Launchpad. There are many qualities that are required to be a successful course creator, and boy does Sherrie embody them. Sherrie generously and authentically shares her experiences from the good, the bad and the unprepared in her course creation journey.

Sherrie Storor is one of Australia’s most astute and experienced real estate experts. Proving to be one of the industry’s most in demand, she mentors, coaches and empowers agents to succeed without sacrifice. Sherrie is a respected speaker at renowned industry events including the Australian Real Estate Conference and the organiser of the Women in Real Estate Business Series, she shares insightful knowledge accumulated from almost two decades of extensive experience. She is also widely recognised by the media for her perceptive comments and practical advice she imparts via videos, podcasts, social media and in print.

In today's podcast episode, we delve into how our Launchpad client Sherrie Storor used her incredibly successful career and determination to achieve our highest EVER launch result in her digital course debut.

Episode Summary:

[3:08 min] All Things Sherrie.
[5:44 min] What Was the Catalyst For Wanting to Create a Flagship Course?
[9:46 min] The Beginning of Sherrie's Launchpad Journey.
[14:01 min] The Pitfalls and Triumphs of Sherrie's Webinar.
[21:33 min] Sherrie's Goals and Numbers for Her Webinar & Cart Open period and What She Would Do Differently Next Time.
[27:22 min] Launching is a Marathon Not A Sprint.
[28:58 min] The Impact Sherrie's Digital Course and Launchpad Has Had on Her Business.
[31:41 min] What Advice Would You Give Someone Who is Thinking About Joining Launchpad?

More About Our Guest, Sherrie Storor:

Follow Sherrie on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sherriestoror/
Website: https://www.sherriestoror.com/milliondollaragent

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/149

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Why NOT Having an Ascension Model is Hurting Your Business

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

“What is an ascension model, and why do I need one?” - said, well, basically no-one ever (because everyone is far too obsessed wondering how to get more engagement on Instagram).

Well, everyone - it’s time to start asking better questions, because the truth is?

An ascension model is HOW you take all of your fluffy followers and email subscribers (you know, the ones that you spend hours creating CONTENT for but who never actually buy your stuff?) and turn them into actual, paying customers.

And that's EXACTLY what we are diving DEEP into in today's episode of the podcast.

Here’s the breakdown, bullet point style (because I know “ascension model” doesn’t sound all that sexy and I don’t want to lose you here) —

1. Every viable business needs a core offer that converts.

2. Once you HAVE a core offer that converts, you need a process for funnelling dream customers/clients/students from NEVER having heard about you before to beating down the door to buy from you. This is called an ASCENSION MODEL (sexy, huh 💋).

3. Your ascension model STARTS with social media, an email list and all of the basic marketing advice being peddled by every guru on Instagram — but it certainly doesn’t end there.

4. Once you HAVE a follower or email subscriber, there is a PROCESS that they must go through before they are ready to buy from you.

And THAT’S what we cover in today’s episode!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/138

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How I Swapped Clients for Courses

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 23:00:00 GMT

In this throwback episode, I share how I swapped clients for courses.

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Stop Listening to Podcasts! Do This Instead.

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Put your hands up if you're a podcast junkie!

I know I am.

In fact, I can credit a hell of the lot of the knowledge I've gained over the past few years to my obsessive consumption of podcasts.

As a way to grow your knowledge and expertise for free (without needing to spend four years completing a university degree), podcast is up there with the best.

But!

Your podcast consumption has a downside.

It's called... drum roll, please... shiny object syndrome, and if left unchecked it can wreak some serious havoc on your marketing strategy, your business and your bottom line.

In this episode, we're talking about why you might want to consider stopping listening to podcasts.. or if it's a thought you can't bear, what you can do instead!

Let's do this!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Behind the Scenes of a $50,000USD Online Course Launch

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 05 May 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Ever thought about launching an online course, and want a sneaky peek behind the curtain of a successful online course launch to see how it’s done?

In the latest Stevie Says Social podcast episode, I break down the recent launch of my signature podcasting course, Launch Your Wildly Successful Podcast.

In it, I reveal my strategy, the exact breakdown of my numbers and debrief the launch live so you can see what worked, what didn’t and what I’ll do differently next time!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Get Your First 5,000 Instagram Followers

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 05:40:03 GMT

In today's episode, we'll be chatting about the summary of my Instagram follower growth and the things that worked for me when it came to getting my first 5,000 Instagram followers – and how you can get your first 5,000 Instagram followers, too.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Podcast KickStart: How to Start a Podcast in 2020

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 06 Apr 2020 20:00:00 GMT

I am currently running a free four day training series designed to give you all of the tools you need to start a podcast. This podcast episode is a recording of the first training. You'll learn why you need to start a podcast in 2020.

Want to join us in the free training? Head to Podcast Kickstart now.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Blending Business and Babies with Lorraine Murphy

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 15:00:00 GMT

In today’s episode, Lorraine and I have a mum-to-mum conversation about why trying to juggle motherhood and business is a recipe for disaster, and why a blend is a far better option.

This is an honest conversation that will resonate with anyone that has ever contemplated having kids and wondered how they would manage it with their biz baby, anyone with a new baby (putting my hand up here!) or anyone that has been through it all and come out the other side.

Life with business and a baby ain’t easy, but knowing that there are others going through it all too – and who are willing to talk about the challenges and the highs in a real way – makes it all seem a little more doable.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Steal this Instagram Post and Stories Formula (It WORKS)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Nov 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Truthbomb: If you feel like you’re hearing crickets when you post on Instagram, it probably hasn't got a single thing to do with the algorithm.

It might just be that your content sucks.

If that's the case, you NEED my Instagram post and stories content formula. Steal my three part recipe in this episode.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Social Media Strategy | Posting on Facebook Isn't A Marketing Strategy (+ An Announcement)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 19:07:51 GMT

There are two fatal mistakes that small businesses make when it comes to their social media marketing efforts. We discuss both in todays episode.

1. They lack a strong, killer brand that differentiates them in a crowded, competitive marketplace; and

2. They lack a full marketing strategy, and focus solely on social media.

We also discuss the re-launch of the podcast, the reasons for the absence and some very exciting new things just over the horizon. To join the waitlist to find out what they are, visit www.steviesayssocial.com/waitlist.

Today's Sponsor

This podcast is proudly supported by ConvertKit. ConvertKit is the email marketing software that I use and love within my own business and to support the podcast, the folks over at ConvertKit are offering a 30 day free trial to any Talk Social to Me listeners that want to try it out inside their own business. Sound good? Simply head over to www.steviesayssocial/convertkit to sign up now.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Email Marketing Tips for Beginners with Two Girls and a Laptop

Stevie Dillon — Sat, 19 May 2018 16:00:00 GMT

This episode is all about email marketing tips for beginners, with the lovely Helen and Jacqui from Two Girls and a Laptop.

In this episode, we chat all about:

The importance of NOT putting all of your eggs in the social media basket;
How social media and email marketing can work beautifully together;
Practical email marketing tips for beginners;
The one thing that you need to be doing to supercharge your subscribers;
The biggest mistake Helen and Jacqui made when they first got into email marketing;
A cool little email tool for growing email subscriber numbers on your website;
What to include on your email opt in form (and what NOT to include);
Where to include an opt in form on your website;
How valuable every single subscriber is on your email list - in dollars;
Tips for communicating with your email list once you have subscribers on board;
What a welcome sequence is and why it's important;
What a normal email unsubscribe rate is and how to minimise it;
What a normal open rate is;
And much more!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Increase Engagement on Your Facebook Business Page in 2018

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 01 May 2018 07:30:59 GMT

If you’re wondering how on earth you can increase engagement on your Facebook business page in 2018, you’re not the only one.

The common consensus amongst the clients and business owners I speak to?

That their Facebook business page is a barren engagement wasteland, and that they are OVER talking to themselves.

There’s no likes, no comments and no engagement on their page, and they’re over it.

So, what if I told you that I have a killer little secret strategy that I use to increase engagement on Facebook business pages AND that I’m feeling generous and that I’m happy to share it with you guys today?

Well, THAT’S WHAT’S HAPPENING! SO, GET EXCITED.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Create a Drop Dead Gorgeous Instagram Feed with Rachelle Saevil from Saevil Row

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 27 Feb 2018 09:08:11 GMT

If you’re anything like me, creating a drop dead gorgeous Instagram feed isn’t something that comes naturally to you.

And if that’s true, you are NOT going to want to miss this episode.

Rachelle Saevil is a web designer, and her Insta feed? It’s on POINT.

I first came across Rachelle's Insta a couple of months ago, and fell in love with it. I followed her account straight away, and since then we have become firm Internet friends, client referrers and have just generally developed a great relationship.

My point? First impressions count. If I hadn't hit her account and the follow button, none of that would ever have happened.

So guys, this stuff is IMPORTANT.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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5 Systems That Save Me 10+ Hours a Week (Really)

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Let's talk about time; and specifically about the tool I use to save 10+ hours a week.

That tool? Is a project management system, specifically Clickup.

In today's episode, I unveil five key strategies I use to save over 10 hours a week with the project management system I have love heart eyes for.

And side note? You can get ALL of these inside of Operational Elegance, which is 99% off (originally, it sold for $20K) AND is bundled with Lifestyle Business School. Check it out here.

1. Our Task Management Process

The first thing I cannot live without? My task management process inside of Clickup, where I am able to document every recurring task and give my business a "skeleton" with EVERYTHING required to make it run.

I attached SOPs to each tasks so that it can be completed by ANYONE, and it has built for me a business engine that doesn't require ME to run it. Magical :magic_wand:

2. Our Productivity Process:

We've implemented a Productivity Process, which is used to make sure that I (and anyone else in the business) is ALWAYS focused on the right, MOST-needle moving one to three tasks.

3. Our Business Command Centre

Our Project Management system is set up to operate as our entire business command centre; or in other words? A centralized hub for standard operating procedures, curriculum, content, testimonials, and key resources.

4. Our Client and Lead CRM:

We have set up the MOST beautiful and seamless client relationship management and lead management system, where new leads and clients automatically pull into there without us needing to manually do it, every form, detail, note and interaction is documented in the one place.

5. Automations

Finally, we have systems and automations set up that "talk" to our project management system, and which allow me to action items WITHOUT needing either my own manual effort OR a team member.

Want this level of organisation and magic?

Inside Operational Elegance, we provide our entire backend template for project management, including detailed training on productivity processes and more.

This closes TODAY, and afterwards, you won't be able to purchase Operational Elegance AT ALL.

Click here to get the bundle before it expires.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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Branding and Social Media for Small Business | How to Think Like a Lifestyle Brand with Girl Friday IP

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

If you're a small business looking to build your business, let me give you a hot tip - nailing your branding first and then your social media efforts will get you most of the way there.

Fi from Girl Friday IP is someone who has leveraged both of these things to build a kick-ass business.

As a service provider in a typically unsexy industry, Fi's 'think like a lifestyle' brand philosophy has provided her year old business with traction - referrals, business, exposure and recognition - that would never have been possible had she just done what every other IP firm does.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Offer Suite Magic: The Three Offers For Growing to A Million Dollars Without Stress, Complexity or Burn Out

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Your offer suite is the beating heart of your business. Without it, you don’t have a business.

In this episode, I will show you how to map out an offer suite with one flagship offer as the crown jewel. You'll discover why small (and might is best) and the ONLY three offers you need to hit a million dollars (plus, how to structure to reach your time and money goals.

I cover:

Why a simple offer suite is the key to a lifestyle business that prioritises balances;
The only three offers you need, which order to create them in and the job each does;
How to map a profitable offer suite.

Episode Show Notes:

00:00 The importance of an offer suite
00:37 Creating a high-converting offer suite
01:48 The case for a simple, streamlined offer suite
12:26 First offer: Flagship offer
16:10 Second offer: Entry offer
21:33 Third offer: Anchor offer
25:22 Mapping out your offer suite
34:04 Conclusion and next steps

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Recommended next episode:

→ Ep 252: How to Create an Irresistible, “Hell Yes” Online Course, Coaching or Membership Offer (Inspired by 2am Flights and Toddler Meltdowns)

Links Mentioned:

→ Get Create and Validate for 60% off to create your first or next irresistible online course in the next 12-weeks

→ 66% off Dream & Design where you can design (or re-design) a wildly aligned, time leveraged expertise-based business model that feels just right for you

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Deciding Who is Legit, and Who Just Wants To Be Famous on Instagram

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 02:00:00 GMT

WARNING: Instagram is a fab tool, but there are also plenty of tools on Instagram using it to try to be fab (I was pretty proud of this lame quote 🤣)

In today's podcast episode, we are discussing the decision making parameters I use when deciding which coaches, suppliers and service providers to engage in my business.

Overall? Be careful; not everyone is who and what they seem.

Do your research, and don't always judge a coach or supplier by their Insta-worthy cover.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/128

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Five Things You NEED to know about LinkedIn

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Considering using LinkedIn as a platform to grow your personal brand, presence, and profile, but unsure where to start?

If so, this is the podcast episode for you!

Judging by the feedback received on my recent podcast episode with Ruby Lee - which covered how she generated 1.5 million views on a single post - many of you are inspired by the huge potential that this particular social media platform presents for your business.

And, for good reason.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Reflection | Life, Mindset and Marketing Lessons from a Year in Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 19 Nov 2018 18:51:24 GMT

Today marks my birthday, and also my first business birthday - so it’s a big day for celebration!

It also marks the first day of a new direction for the Stevie Says Social brand, one that I have been slowly steering toward for a little while now and which marks a bigger focus on education and training for small business.

This episode is a mix of life, mindset and marketing lessons.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Seven Ways to Increase Your Instagram Engagement in 2019

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 03:27:58 GMT

Wondering how you can increase your Instagram engagement in 2019?

If you’re not, you should be.

In fact, if Instagram is a key marketing channel for you then increasing your Instagram engagement should be your TOP priority this year.

Why?

Well, because the days of obsessing over followers are over.

In this episode, I'll be giving you my tips for increasing your Instagram engagement in 2019.
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Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Branding | How to Create a Stand Out Brand for Your Small Business with Tara Ladd, Your One and Only

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 19:25:55 GMT

Branding is really important. In today's episode, we'll talk about how a small business can create a mighty brand.

I had a chat with Tara Ladd, the creative director and the founder of Your One and Only. She helps brand and rebrand small businesses to have a purpose through visual identity and creative strategies.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Acquire and Retain Customers for your eCommerce Business with Social Media (with Lucy Bloomfield)

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 31 May 2018 11:42:33 GMT

Do you want to know how to grow your eCommerce business using social media?

More specifically, do you want to know how to acquire new customers plus nurture and retain your existing ones from someone who has done it all before?

If so, you're in luck.

In this episode, I interview Lucy Bloomfield. Lucy built her own eCommerce business, Trefiel, from 0 to 10,000 customers, with 40% customer retention, in just 18 months.

We discuss how she successfully leveraged social media and other digital marketing activities to build her business.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Plan for Maternity Leave (or Time Off) in Your Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 07 Oct 2019 15:00:00 GMT

When you’re a busy business owner or entrepreneur, the idea of leaving your business baby for any reason can be an overwhelming thought. When it’s for maternity leave, a holiday, stepping back for school holidays or to tend to other priorities in life, an extended break forces you to think about what you’re going to do to prepare and ensure that the business runs without you.

At least, it certainly did for me.

In the weeks and months leading up to the birth of my first REAL baby, I’ve needed to put additional time and effort into setting up my business baby to run without needing my 24/7 attention.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Which Comes First: The Audience, Or the Course? (Breaking Down the Chicken Egg Conundrum of the Online Course World)

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 11 May 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Which comes first – the chicken, or the egg?

It’s an age-old conundrum, and I know it sure as hell baffled me for a good 20 years or so.

All chickens hatch from eggs > All eggs are laid by chickens > and around and around it goes.

The new age, 2021 equivalent of chicken and egg in the online course world, is this:

Which comes first – the audience, or the course? Let’s dive on in.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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[Series Pt 2] There's an Online Education Model Tipping Point - Here's What It Is and How to Stay Under It

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT

(I wish someone had given me this advice before I grew a big, traditional business).

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Get the Online Business Model Map I Recommend for 2026: https://lifestylebusiness.school/profit-plan-lm-1

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[BONUS] Girl Interrupted: Chatting Business, Babies and Podcasting with Rachelle and Gina from the Girl Interrupted Podcast

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 12 Apr 2020 01:57:08 GMT

In this bonus episode, I am sharing my recent podcast interview with Gina and Rachelle from the Girl Interrupted Podcast. Check them out on Instagram here.

Want to Launch Your Wildly Successful Podcast? Doors open now for my signature podcasting course, join here.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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7 Ways to Make Consistent Income Without Burning Out

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 20:00:00 GMT

The NUMBER ONE problem online business owners want solved?

"How do I make consistent income WITHOUT burning out? 🤔

How do I know?

I surveyed 750 people recently, and after running the results through Chat GPT; it TOLD me that this was the top problem by a long shot.

So! In today's podcast episode, I am sharing with you 7 ways to build a business that gives you consistent, steady income without sacrificing the values you started it for in the first place (like more time, freedom and happiness).

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Shifting Tides: Five BIG Changes In the Online Marketing Space in 2024

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Pre PS. Want to start the new year with CRYSTAL CLEAR CLARITY on your 2024 business and LIFE endgame? Join Lifestyle Business School now and get instant access to Dream and Design. It's included in Lifestyle Business School, and it has HUNDREDS of glowing reviews; I don't speak lightly when I say that completing this process in mid-2023 changed my business and my life for the better. Join here.

It's a shiny new year! If there is one thing that I know for sure about the online marketing space, it is that things are changing FAST. Can you believe that just a year ago, no-one had really heard of or used AI? The times are a changin' - and fast.

With the calendar year now officially ending in a "4", it's likely that we're all starting to look forward to the year ahead. So, I want to share with you some of the big shifts I have noticed recently in the online marketing space - both in my OWN behaviour, and in consumer sentiment - and how I am thinking about it in my own offers as I look to the year ahead.

Maybe it will give you some inspiration for your OWN offers; and the way you intend to shape your 2024!

Let's dive in.

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Life Update: Creating Content You're Proud Of, Hamster Wheels, Getting Your Foundations Right, Making Time for Important Things & More!

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 26 May 2025 19:00:00 GMT

I hate when my fave podcasters go AWOL, so here's a little update and a few things I wanted to share! I'll be back on the podcast airwaves in July - will you miss me? Send me a DM on Instagram if there is something in this episode that resonated (@steviedillon_).

See you soon!

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Five KILLER Instagram Strategies Working Right NOW.

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Want to sell stuff on Instagram? Of course, you do.

Here’s the thing, though.

Blindly following crappy advice from so-called ‘social media experts’ won’t help you do it.

Especially when it seems like every second person on the Internet these days is dishing out dodgy, outdated, and untested ‘expert advice’ on how to hack the algorithm.

The volume of silly myths and old information out there is truly mind-boggling, and honestly? It makes me mad.

So, I’ve decided to dedicate this podcast episode to sharing five killer Instagram strategies that are working right now.

Want to know what REALLY matters when it comes to selling on Instagram in 2020?

Listen closely.

I’m about to share EVERYTHING you need to know.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Earn $500k in 24 Months With a $2k Offer (Step by Step)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 21 Oct 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Today, we are going to walk through the EXACT steps for growing a leveraged, expertise-based online offer to a very specific revenue amount.

I want to make this really practical for you, so I will be specific with the numbers:

The goal? Get to a replicable $500k year with a $2k offer.

The first year is set up, the second year is going to be where we make it happen.

Both are important – and I will explain why knowing THAT is important, too.

And PS -- this isn’t even a hypothetical either, because this mock scenario closely mimics my EXACT path over the past 12 months of rebuilding my business.

So, here goes!

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Successful Online Course Creators Have THESE Five Things In Common.

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

❌ Unpopular Opinion: Not EVERYONE is cut out to be a course creator (despite what the online gurus might tell you).

In my experience, there are a number of attributes that define whether you're cut out for online courses, or whether you might be better suited to being a service provider.

In this podcast episode, we break down five top attributes required to be a successful course creator.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/123

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How to Create an Online Course That Stands Out and Sells (You Need This ONE Thing!)

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 05:00:00 GMT

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How to Get Leads from Social Media + How to Write Killer Social Media Copy with Anita Siek, Wordfetti

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 02:55:24 GMT

I have had the pleasure of meeting SO many people through social media.

My partner Jules thinks it's strange but I THINK IT'S THE BEST.

Anyway, Anita Siek is one of my Internet friends (as Jules calls them). She owns Wordfetti, an online copywriting house specialising in disruptive and thought-provoking copy. Having launched her business at a very similar time to my own, she generates most of her leads from social media and I had to chat to her more about that.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Online Business is Changing: How I'm Adapting My Content Strategy to Keep Up

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 05 May 2025 16:00:00 GMT

nline business is changing. With the prevalent decrease in the social media engagement, here's three very specific and practical things I'm doing to adapt to the new environment.

Social Media — invest in your performing content to get more engagement
Email Marketing — start nurturing your email list
Role of Podcasting, YouTube and Substack — for the handy top of funnel OR middle of funnel platform

In this episode, I’m breaking down how I’ve traditionally captured it (hello Instagram, podcasting, and email marketing 👋), how much time I’ve been pouring into each platform, and the results I discovered when I did a little audit. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t what I expected.

Episode Shownotes:

00:00 Changes in the online business industry
01:22 Traditional attention channels
03:10 Evaluating channel effectiveness
06:39 Shifts in social engagement
18:43 Revamping email strategies
26:24 The Role of podcasting
34:26 Conclusion and next steps

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Recommended next episode:

→ Ep 271: Are Funnels Dead? No, But Things Are MESSY Right Now (Here’s What to Do About It)

→ Ep 272: Pay Me Attention: How to Grow, Fast.

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My Business Story Year By Year [Part 2/2]

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Let's continue with our walk down memory lane.

If you haven't listened to or read part one of this series where I walked through my first and second year in business (including exactly how much revenue I made), you can do that HERE.

In today's podcast episode, we are recapping years two to five in business, and all of the challenges, wins and lessons along the way.

Let's go!

In part 2 of my business story, we discuss:
✔️ Year Two - 2019
✔️ Year Three - 2020
✔️ Year Four - 2021
✔️ Year Five - 2022

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[Series Pt 8] BTS: Sneak Peek Into Upcoming Shifts in My Business Model & How to Work With Me

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 19:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we are wrapping up the eight part series with some BTS insights into shifts I am personally making to my OWN business model, and how we can work together in 2026.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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How Mathilde Has Built a Thriving Evergreen Course Business Without Launching in a Non-Business Niche

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT

"I want to create a digital course but I hate the idea of launching or showing up live!"

"I'd love a successful course but I have a little one and I'm time poor!"

"I'm not in a business niche.. do hobby courses even make money?"

"I hate social media - can I still create a successful course?"

If you have asked yourself ANY of these questions or had ANY of these thoughts, this episode with the lovely Mathilde Kien is MADE for you!

Mathilde is a French teacher and podcaster. She's the host of the French Made Easy podcast with over 2 million downloads (and counting.) She helps thousands of beginners speak French clearly and confidently from the comfort of their homes through her podcast and online courses.

In today’s podcast episode, we delve into how our Launchpad client Mathilde came into the program with an established course business, grew her evergreen webinar opt-in page conversion to 67% and how she fits course creation and Launchpad in around her young family.

Here’s what we covered:
👉🏻 Mathilde's experience creating her flagship course by herself vs within Launchpad;
👉🏻 What led her to finally take the leap to join Launchpad;
👉🏻 How Mathilde grew her Evergreen Webinar Opt-In page conversion to 67% and tripled her foundation round student goal;
👉🏻 How Mathilde fit course creation and Launchpad in around her young family;
👉🏻 Why Mathilde hasn't been on Instagram in over 1.5 years;
👉🏻 The continual evolution and refinement required to be an effective course creator;
👉🏻 And more!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/176

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Business Strategy Q+A Sesh! Can I be successful with a low cost digital product? Specialised niche, which offer to create?? How much time to create this model? A creative who wants to sell something leveraged too, can/should I do both?

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 30 Oct 2024 01:00:00 GMT

⏰ PSA: The price for Lifestyle Business School increases by up to $900USD in 24 hours, and we have just added a new super accessible payment plan. Click here.

This is a business strategy podcast Q+A, where I am answering some JUICY questions.

Let’s call it a big ‘ol business strategy sesh!

I answer:

➡️ I am a creative and I want to expand my clients/audience with a leveraged offer like a digital course or products. What is the best way to do this?

➡️ I want to create a low cost digital product, around $30. Can I be successful with this?

➡️ I have a specialised niche and I want to create something lower cost to serve them. Should I?

➡️ How much time do you need to dedicate each week to build a successful lifestyle business?

And more!

These are some of the questions that have been coming through as we prepare to close the doors on the current price, extended time bonus and all of the other special bonuses. Whether you are thinking about joining Lifestyle Business School, or you simply love a good strategy jam sesh – this is for you!

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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200+ Clients, $2 Million+ in Revenue + Countless Client Results: We’re Sunsetting Launchpad! Here’s Why (And a VERY EXCITING Final Intake!)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 17 Apr 2023 19:00:00 GMT

April is a month of big, big news for The Course Cartel.

And in the second big announcement in less than a week, we're sunsetting our FLAGSHIP group coaching program, Launchpad.

I KNOW.

Huge.

Don't worry though, we will be finishing with a bang... with the opportunity to join us in a 6-month container for the very FIRST and LAST time ever!

In today's podcast episode, here's the 411 on our big decision and how you can join us before we sunset Launchpad... for good!

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ It's a Strange Time to Make This Decision;
✔️ The Cost of Delivery;
✔️ Making Bold Decisions Is Scary... But Growth Doesn't Come From Comfort Zones;
✔️ Honouring Launchpad with Our LAST Intake, Ever;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/194

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Not Being a Stereotypical Entrepreneur, The Anatomy of a Personal Brand Business, Launching Tips and Podcast SEO with Kate Toon

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 05:17:54 GMT

Want to build a personal brand? Want to know the secrets to selling out and launching, even when people aren't 'supposed' to be buying? Want to know how to launch a podcast? Curious about how to nail podcast SEO?

In this episode, I speak to Kate Toon all about her business, her launches, her personal brand, how to get your podcast to the top of the charts and more.

We cover:

How Kate manages three podcasts, including a daily podcast;
Tips and tricks for selling out a launch (even in 'these times');
The anatomy of a personal brand business and all of the bits and pieces that make it successful;
The power of a personal brand business and it's ability to allow you to pivot;
Kate's three podcasts and her strategy with each;
Podcast SEO and how it works;
How the podcasting charts work;
The power of niching down;
Consistency v Persistence;
And more!

Want to launch a wildly successful podcast? Join my podcasting course here.

Follow Kate on Instagram here.

Follow me on Instagram here.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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The Seven Profit Pillars Needed in Order to Have a Sustainable and Profitable Business,with Angela Henderson

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Want to know the seven essential profit pillars required to have a successful business? OF COURSE YOU DO!

With so many small business owners chasing sparkly squirrel, obsessing over their Instagram follower count and forgetting the important foundational elements of good business, it’s no wonder why 90% of them fail in the first five years.

If you’ve ever wondered what steps to take first (or next), how to set solid business foundations, what the essential elements of a killer website are, how (and why) building an email list is important.. and much, much more, this is the episode for you!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How Katie Manifested $50k in Online Course Sales in Six Months (With a Small Audience and a Newborn!)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 19:00:00 GMT

The ingredients required to be a successful course creator involve a happy marriage of three things - strategy, mindset and action. In today's podcast episode, we explore how our Launchpad client Katie Hokin used each of these three key ingredients to quite literally manifest $50,000 in course sales in 6 months - with a tiny audience, a newborn, a toddler and a brand new business to boot.

Katie Hokin is a Mindset and Marketing Coach. She works with Consultants, Creative and Coaches teaching them to GLOW and GROW online. Her signature course ShowUp on Social is the first step to helping them confidently ShowUp online, become known in their niche, charge their worth and build their inspiring, impactful and abundant business.

If you have any excuses or limiting beliefs holding YOU back from scaling your own successful digital course or program, you will find a heavy dose of inspiration in Katie's story.

Episode Summary:

How to Show Up on Social Media in a way that feels congruent to you;
Where Katie was 12 months ago and her catalyst for deciding to create an online course;
How Katie landed on her niche and specific course topic (and some tips and tricks to help you to do the same!);
How Katie validated her course idea and got paid to create it In advance (despite her initial hesitations around doing so!);
The role of mindset and energetics in Katie's success;
How Katie approaches fear and stops perfectionism and procrastination from holding her back;
How Katie achieved $50 in sales with a small audience and a newborn;
Katie's advice for anyone considering creating, launching and scaling a flagship digital course in 2022.

More About Our Guest, Katie Hokin:

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kt.creative
Download Katie's Video Scripts to help you to show up confidently on social media: https://www.ktcreative.com.au/video

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[Series Pt 1] Courses Are Dead: What's Changed, What's Coming & Why It's a Good Thing For High-Achieving Women

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT

For the past eight years, I've worked with 2,000+ students, created over 200 podcast episodes that have been downloaded millions of times, and made several million dollars in revenue as the 'online course' girl.

Only, times have changed.

This episode is the first in a series sharing what's changed and the model I recommend moving forward. In today's episode, I am sharing what has shifted, why and why I think it's an incredible opportunity for women who desire a simple, lean lifestyle business.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Get the Online Business Model Map I Recommend for 2026: https://lifestylebusiness.school/profit-plan-lm-1

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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→ Follow Stevie on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/steviedillon_/

→ Subscribe on Substack — https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com

[Series Pt 4] The Simplest and MOST Potent Tweak to Make to Your Business Model Right Now (Without Burning Everything Down)

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 16 Nov 2025 19:00:00 GMT

In other words, they aren't generating the volume of leads required to sell.

As I've already covered, this isn't getting easier in the current environment – it's getting harder. The problem is two-fold – the leads are harder to get, and once you have them it's harder to sell to them.

Most founders try to solve the problem in one of two ways:

Chase more leads: Makes sense on the surface of it, right? If you don't have enough leads, you should look for ways to get more. And so, they do. They start posting on new social platforms, running more ads, trying out different lead magnets... and most of the time, hitting up against their tipping point when they do.

Create more offers: Faced with a shortfall in revenue, they decide to build out new offers to serve the people they already have in their audience. Revenue-wise, it works great. Time and energy-wise, it stacks their calendar with more creation and more things to deliver on, and they end up working more than ever.

Here's the problem:

Both solutions require MORE AND BIGGER to achieve the same endgame.

If your goal is the $400k sweet spot, I have a different approach for you and I'm walking through what it is in today's podcast episode.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Get the Online Business Model Map I Recommend for 2026: https://lifestylebusiness.school/profit-plan-lm-1

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

Enjoy this content? Follow and subscribe for more:

→ Follow Stevie on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/steviedillon_/

→ Subscribe on Substack — https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com

Which Instagram Profile Should I Choose? Instagram Business, Personal and Creator Accounts: A Case Study

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 25 Jun 2019 07:30:00 GMT

Wondering which Instagram profile you should choose? Perhaps you’re wondering what the advantages and disadvantages are of a business account v a personal profile? Or, whether you should switch to an Instagram Creator account?

With all of Instagram’s new features (not to mention an ever changing Instagram algorithm), it can be difficult to know which Instagram profile is best suited to your needs. In this episode, I tell you about all three.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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[Podcast Best Of] Why Starting THIS Podcast is BEST Thing We’ve Done — Ever (And What We'd Do Differently If We Were Starting Today)

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Next up in our Podcast Best Of session, we revisit Why Starting THIS Podcast is BEST Thing We’ve Done — Ever (And What We'd Do Differently If We Were Starting Today)!

Starting my podcast is hands down, without a doubt, the single most powerful and highest ROI marketing strategy I have ever adopted in my business. It is almost singlehandedly responsible for 40% of enrolments into our Launchpad program, and for the remaining 60% it is a significant warm up strategy for people who “found” us through other means. We know, because we ask.

In this throwback episode, I am going to give you a behind the scenes breakdown of the exact impact that podcasting has had on our business, how you can expect it to impact your business if you were to start one, and what I would do differently if I was starting out today.

✔️ Who Is Podcasting Best Suited To?
✔️ What Role Does a Podcast Play in Your Content Marketing Strategy?
✔️ What Tangible Impact Has Podcasting Had on Our Business?
✔️ Would We Still Start a Podcast Today?
✔️ What Would I Do Differently If I Was Starting Out Today?

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/157

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The Stevie Says Social podcast is here!

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 01:47:34 GMT

Very exciting times, guys.

The Stevie Says Social podcast is here!

If you're a business owner, marketer or social media marketer looking to learn how to sell more and attract more clients using social media marketing, this is the podcast for you!

Episode one is a quick introduction, and a bit of insight into what you can expect from the podcast.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Starting with Why and Launching an Online Program (and Business) You're Proud Of with Alex Richardson, Duo Pilates

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 06:37:52 GMT

In today’s episode, I interview Alex Richardson. Alex is the owner of Duo Pilates and creator of the soon to be (re)launched 12 week online pilates program, ‘The Duo Pilates Method’.

In this episode, we discuss:

Alex’s story, and her journey from being a nurse to starting her own Pilates studio;
The law of attraction and the impact it had on Alex’s decision to start a business;
The importance of mindset in the early stages of business ownership;
How setting up systems and processes has given Alex the freedom to leave the business;
Alex’s decision to leverage her time and start an online business + the mistakes she made when she first launched;
The CRITICAL importance of knowing your purpose and how it transformed Alex’s business;
How to incorporate your purposes into everything you do;
And more!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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😍 How to Create an Irresistible, "Hell Yes" Online Course, Coaching or Membership Offer (Inspired by 2am Flights and Toddler Meltdowns)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Recently, I embarked on an extended Euro-trip.

[Read the full blog post here].

EXCITING, of course – but, with a catch.

The flight to Dubai en-route to Europe departed from Brisbane at 2am.

Tricky in any event, but even moreso with a two and four year old to contend with.

I did the sleep math olympics trying to figure out how to cope.

My realisation?

From a toddler perspective, I was likely screwed regardless of HOW I decided to approach things (especially since those awesome inflatable travel beds for kids on planes are banned on my Emirates flight – damn, right).

And so, I started focusing on my own sleep.

“If we get on the plane at 2am, they MIGHT go back to sleep for a few hours and it’s going to be smart to try and catch at least a couple of hours myself so I’m not zapped and losing my proverbial s$%# when we arrive in Dubai 14-hours later” – I thought.

In other words? I started to focus on the things I thought I MIIIIIIGHT be able to semi-control.

And so began my deep-dive into the world of getting sleep on planes.

Plot twist: This turns into a content piece on how to create an irresistible, hell yes online course coaching or membership offer so bear with me.

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Why Starting THIS Podcast is BEST Thing We’ve Done — Ever (And What We'd Do Differently If We Were Starting Today)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 Jul 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Starting my podcast is hands down, without a doubt, the single most powerful and highest ROI marketing strategy I have ever adopted in my business. It is almost single handedly responsible for 40% of enrolments into our Launchpad program, and for the remaining 60% it is a significant warm up strategy for people who “found” us through other means. We know, because we ask.

In today’s podcast episode, I am going to give you a behind the scenes breakdown of the exact impact that podcasting has had on our business, how you can expect it to impact your business if you were to start one, and what I would do differently if I was starting out today.

If “starting a podcast” has been on your one day list since 2019 and you’re wondering whether it’s worth it to finally bite the bullet — or even if it hasn’t and you’re looking for a way to supercharge the warmth and growth of your audience and you’re wondering “how” — this podcast episode is for YOU.

We are answering the following questions:

✔️ Who Is Podcasting Best Suited To?
✔️ What Role Does a Podcast Play in Your Content Marketing Strategy?
✔️ What Tangible Impact Has Podcasting Had on Our Business?
✔️ Would We Still Start a Podcast Today?
✔️ What Would I Do Differently If I Was Starting Out Today?

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/157

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Expiring Episode This One Thing Will Make Your Online Course Stand Out, Sell Out and Get Stellar Results for Your Students

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 05:00:00 GMT

Want to create a course, but have no idea how to take your ideas and know how and craft it into a KILLER course that you're really damn proud of, that sells like hotcakes AND that generates results for your students too? It all comes down to this ONE thing.

IMPORTANT! I'm hosting an exclusive, invite only private training this coming Thursday, 3 December (AUS time) for people interested in working with me to:

- Create an irresistible flagship online course;

- Market it and sell it even if you're starting out with a small audience;

- Launch it and sell it all year round.

The private training will cover the exact, step-by-step framework to do this.

Want in? You just need to fill out this quick, two question application here: https://www.thecoursecartel.com/launchpad

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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New Levels, New Devils - Five "Real Talk" Truths About Building an Online Course Business "Successful" Course Creators Aren't Talking About

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 10 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Ever wondered what it's like once you've "made it"? Well, let me tell you...

New levels, new devils, as they say 👹

And let me tell you, there are a few things that I wish people had been real about before I embarked on my digital course business. Champagne problems, if you will, which I have always defined as those very real problems that come about as a BY-PRODUCT of something for which you are, in fact, extremely fortunate to be experiencing.

And so, in today's podcast episode, I am sharing with you five "real talk" truths about building an online course business that successful digital course creators - and online coaches trying to SELL you the digital course lifestyle - aren't talking about.

✔️ Success can feel unsafe
✔️ You can't do it all yourself... but team ain't no walk in the park either
✔️ Growth is MORE than just more revenue
✔️ You can't outsource being the leader in your business
✔️ Your business won't make you financially free

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/166

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[Series Pt 6] Personal Brand Melody, Increasing 'Time With You' and Leaning In HARD to Your Humanness

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 19:00:00 GMT

It's a special birthday episode in the series!

In this episode, I share how to tweak your publishing strategy to thrive right now.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Get the Online Business Model Map I Recommend for 2026: https://lifestylebusiness.school/profit-plan-lm-1

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

Enjoy this content? Follow and subscribe for more:

→ Follow Stevie on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/steviedillon_/

→ Subscribe on Substack — https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com

1 Million Downloads, 20k Subscribers and 17k Instagram | Organic Reach Secrets for a Highly Profitable Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 30 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Who needs to get more eyeballs on their business without spending a cent?

*Everyone raises hand*

It's critically important, and even more so RIGHT NOW. Attention is currency, and the more you are able to command it, the more competitive you will be in the marketplace. From the very start of our business, we have relied heavily on organic strategies to grow our business. The power of doing so?

1) Increased Profit Margins: Having an organic audience means you can spend less on paid advertising -- meaning higher profit margins for your business.

2) Higher Conversion Rates: Organic traffic converts at a higher rate than paid traffic, because there is a "know, like and trust" factor.

3) Fuels Paid Traffic: Having a paid strategy alone is no longer recommended even by paid ad agencies; complementing your paid ad traffic strategies with organic reach strategies helps to warm those leads up to "stick" and convert.

4) Avoid Commoditisation: A strong organic reach strategy combined with thought leadership content means that you can differentiate from others in your space and avoid your business becoming "commoditised". People will want to work with YOU specifically rather than just any coach, course creator, etc. This also means the ability to NOT need to compete on price.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Give More Than You Think;
✔️ Have a Broadcast Channel;
✔️ Share Your Unique Perspective;
✔️ Create Your Dream 100;
✔️ DM New Followers;
✔️ Searchable Content;
✔️ Focus On It;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/183

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‘You Talkin’ to ME!’ – Market Well to Sell, Sell, Sell

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Welcome to Part Three of our five-part series on setting up your personal brand for success!

In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial art of positioning. It's not just about finding a niche; it's about understanding the customer journey, choosing the right market and how marketing and positioning work hand in hand to make your brand irresistible.

You can view Part One and Part Two of this series here, and subscribe to the podcast to be notified when the next part is released.

Ready to turn your niche into a powerhouse brand? Let's dive in!

Episode Shownotes

00:00 Introduction: The importance of positioning
01:09 My journey: From corporate job to social media manager
02:55 The turning point: Bali and beyond
04:08 The biggest mistake: No niche, no market
05:55 The power of positioning
10:05 Understanding the customer journey
14:09 Steps to effective positioning
16:12 Choosing the right market
21:42 Conclusion: position well to sell
22:48 Next steps and further learning

Recommended next episode:

→ Part One in the Series: Don't Build Businesses! Build Projects!

→ Part Two in the Series: Three Layers Deep: All Aboard the Niche Train

Links Mentioned:

→ '‘You Talkin’ to ME!’ – Market Well to Sell, Sell, Sell' - Read this article on Substack

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How to Achieve Anything You Want

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Ever sat at home on a Friday night, content with your life and your 9 – 5 but with a niggling feeling in the back of your mind wondering - is this all there is?

Or wondered where all of the hopes and goals you *used* to have have gone, buried under bills and debts and obligations? Or maybe dreamed of doing more, but flopped on the couch at the end of a long work day exhausted and unsure of where to even start?

I have, and it sucks.

When you're in that place, looking forward to where you think you might like to be is overwhelming - especially when the distance between here and there seems just too big.

Often, you just don’t know where to start – so you don’t.

In this episode, I go through some steps you can take to, quite literally, achieve anything you want.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Why Creating Connection is the Key to Social Media Success

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 20 May 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Buckle in guys, because in this episode we're going deep.

Sure, I know you’ve got a biz and you’re bloody busy and time is ticking and you’re all like JUST TELL ME HOW TO MAKE SOME GODDAMN MONEY THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA DAMMIT.

I get it.

We’re ALL spinning our wheels, and when it it comes to social we just want to crack the damn code - and quickly, because we have a million other things to do.

The thing is though, that all of the lazy, so-called ‘quick win’ social media stuff you might have tried in the past hasn’t WORKED, has it?

Otherwise, you wouldn’t be here.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Beat the Instagram Follow Unfollow

Stevie Dillon — Fri, 11 May 2018 03:55:56 GMT

Are you a victim of the Instagram follow unfollow garbage that's going on at the moment?

If you’re active on Insta, I’m gonna guess you are.

Here’s how it usually goes:

You put up a new post after dinner one night, and you’re pretty damn proud of it.

You add some hashtags so that it gets seen by more people (and because some social media person told you that's what you’re supposed to do).

The likes and engagements start rolling’ ‘awn in [*but not as much as they USED to, because - algorithm - but anyway],* and you even gain a few new followers - yasssss!!!!!

All in all, you’re chuffed.

You pat yourself on the back, wash your face and jump into bed feeling like a #SocialMediaQueen (or King!).

[8 hours pass].

When your alarm goes off the next morning, you rub the sleep out of your eye, reach for your phone and click open the Insta app to check the post.

AND…. [insert dramatic, foreboding music]...

YOU CAN'T BELIEVE IT.

You’ve gained SIX NEW FOLLOWERS BUT YOUR OVERALL INSTAGRAM FOLLOWER COUNT HAS DROPPED BY 7. WTF.

[Sad, depressing music plays].

Sound familiar?

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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My 2025 Online Business Game Plan (Real Numbers)

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

[🎉 New!] Subscribe to Stevie's Substack for weekly articles and behind the scenes: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

If you love behind the scenes episodes, this is for you.

After spending a year building out my new business model, it's time to take everything I've created and grow it.

To "stay the course", as my friend Odette said to me at brunch last week.

So today, I want to share with you my 2025 game plan, real numbers and all!

Episode Shownotes:
00:00 Introduction: Transparency and Real Numbers
03:30 Step 1: Setting the Vision
17:39 Step 2: Making the Plan
35:00 Step 3: Execution and Tracking
32:27 Habits, Systems, and Support for Success
39:19 Summary of 2025 Game Plan

———

Recommended next episode:

→ How to Make $500k within 24 Months with a $500k Offer

Links Mentioned:

→ My 2025 Game Plan on Substack

→ My 2024 Revenue Numbers Revealed

→ My YouTube Page

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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→ Follow Stevie on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/steviedillon_/

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BTS: How We Recoup Up to $5,000 a Month in Failed Payments on Autopilot

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 19:00:00 GMT

PSA — Sales revenue means nothing if you're pouring it into a leaky bucket.

In our business, we have between $2,000 and $5,000 a month in failed payments.

Lost revenue due to failed payments is a BIG deal in our industry; it's an not-often-spoken-about elephant on the online business room. Side note: I covered this in more detail back in this episode here.

The good news, though? Most of it can be recouped.

In this podcast, I show you how.

PS We HAND you this FULL process, along with the SOP, Email Automation Templates, Email Copy Templates and accompanying instructions, inside of Deliver and Delight in the Lifestyle Business School membership, which drops into Lifestyle Business School this month.

Links and Resources Mentioned in Episode:

Episode 200: Missed Payments, Payment Plan Defaults and Cash Flow Crunches.. Let’s Talk About It
Free Failed Payment SOP: Get the exact Standard Operating Procedure template we used to recoup failed payments in our online business.
BRAND New Deliver and Delight Course just added to Lifestyle Business School: Deliver and Delight is the FULL playbook for implementing stand out, streamlined delivery processes for any high or low touch course, program, coaching offer or mastermind. We hand you our done for you workflows, standard operating procedures and automations for the three phases of managing any online offer.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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→ Subscribe on Substack — https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com

Season Three Trailer: Online Business Strategy

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 25 Mar 2020 21:00:00 GMT

How do I create and sell online courses? How do I build an online business? What’s the best way to create passive income? How do I build a personal brand online? And how do I leverage things like podcasting, social media and online marketing to grow an online audience?

Answering THOSE questions is the new focus of this podcast. In this episode, I dive into my business and podcast pivot and the reasons behind it.

Get the ultimate course creation checklist at www.steviesayssocial.com/checklist

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Should I Start a Podcast?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 14 Oct 2019 15:00:00 GMT

If you’ve ever wondered “Should I start a podcast?”, you’re not alone.

Podcasting is so hot right now and is enjoying a HUGE renaissance.

Why?

Simple.

People these days are time-poor. They don’t have the bandwidth to sit down and watch a gazillion videos, let alone read in-depth blog posts. They’re seeking out options that allow them to multitask, learn on the run and to be entertained, educated and/or informed whilst doing other things.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Expiring Episode Choosing the Perfect Online Course Topic

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 30 Nov 2020 03:00:00 GMT

The FIRST big question you might be asking if you've ever thought of creating and launching an online course is is like.. which TOPIC should I choose?

If course creation has been on the cards for you for a while but fear, overwhelm and "which topic should I run with" has held you back til now, I'm breaking down EXACTLY how to choose a profitable online course topic both you and your students will love.

If you're sick of swapping time for money, catering to the whims of multiple demanding clients and hitting an income ceiling with no more hours left in your day, this episode is for you!

I'm hosting an exclusive, live private training **NEXT WEEK (Thursday, 3rd December to be exact)** where I will be sharing the exact step-by-step roadmap for service providers (I'm looking at you freelancers, coaches, 9-5'ers, service-based business peeps ) interested in swapping clients for a course in 2021.

Want to come?

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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7 Strategies Working RIGHT Now on Instagram to Supercharge Your Growth

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 19:00:00 GMT

PRE PS. Launchpad is closing THIS WEEK - last chance EVER to join!

Sick of wondering what on EARTH is working now on Instagram, and ready for someone to give it to you straight without wading through the muck?

That's EXACTLY what I'm here for, and after experiencing a bit of a "lull" in my OWN Instagram game recently, I know I needed to bring someone that knows what's she's talking about on to help ME with what's working right now.

Brittany Worthington is the founder of The Social Britify who you may recognise as being one of our case studies inside of our Launchpad program.

In this podcast episode, Britt and I explore seven strategies that are working TODAY to supercharge your Instagram growth.. Whether you're a course creator, service provider or coach, these strategies will help you harness the full potential of Instagram and make your content stand out and sell out.

Side note: Britt at The Social Britify is holding a FREE challenge kicking off on June 26 to transform your Instagram game and become the "it" biz in your space (without spending hours batching, forcing yourself to "be consistent" or following any of the other tired, old Instagram advice). This complete live, free training series 'The Instagram Overhaul' is on from June 26 to June 29. Sign up and check it out here.

In this podcast episode, we discussed:

✔️ B Roll Reels

✔️ Carousels

✔️ Talking Head Reels

✔️ Ongoing Live Series

✔️ Chat GPT "Jooshing"

✔️ Chatbots

✔️ DM Conversations

✔️ And MORE!

If your business or personal brand is on Instagram wondering how to adapt to the never ending changes (without tearing your hair out), this is the episode for you.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

Enjoy this content? Follow and subscribe for more:

→ Follow Stevie on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/steviedillon_/

→ Subscribe on Substack — https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com

Why Your Brand Power Will Carry You Through Tough Financial Times (And How to Grow Yours)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Want to create custom, bespoke and BEAUTIFUL delivery experiences for my students to separate me from others in the industry, AND to create beautiful sales pages and assets to boot, too? KLEQ is an "all-in-one" course platform that is completely customisable from a design perspective, and enables you to create an ENTIRELY bespoke student experience for your courses and programs that look COMPLETELY unique to you. For just a few days, the KLEQ team are offering a $1 trial for 30 days, and (wait for it) 50% OFF your first five months. Check out KLEQ here!

Brand power is the sum of all of the elements that make up the strength of a business or person’s brand and how they are perceived in the eyes of prospects.

It influences someone's decision to buy heavily... and in some cases, FAR MORE than the actual sales process, funnel or launch event set up to make sales.

There could be two people or businesses with identical launch events, or evergreen funnels, or sales call processes... and they would experience SIGNIFICANTLY different conversion rates (which is the percentage of leads that purchase) on account of their brand power.

The good news?

Is that brand power is something that you BUILD, not some ethereal quality that one either has or doesn’t have.

Here’s some ways you can increase your brand power. Investing time and energy into this process is one of the most important things you will do. It doesn’t have “direct ROI”; you can’t measure it in a spreadsheet and it’s still one of the highest ROI activities you will ever undertake.

In this episode, we discussed:
👉🏻 Podcasting and Core Content;
👉🏻 Top Notch Design;
👉🏻 Proximity;
👉🏻 When to increase your Brand Power;
👉🏻 And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/181

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Operational Elegance: How to Build the Streamlined BUSINESS Behind Your Online Course or Program

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

It's one thing to create an online course; it's entirely another to build the "business" behind it.

Processes, team, finances, SOPs... all things I like to call "operational elegance".

Because, the truth is whilst the gurus will tell you that an online course will give you freedom and flexibility, the REAL truth is that TRUE freedom comes from the systems, routine and operations that you build BEHIND it.

In today's podcast episode, we cover what you need in place to build out the operational structure behind your business. Routine, system and structure will set you free.

Here are the key systems and operational focuses you need:

✔️ Project Management and Planning
✔️ SOPs and Back End Systems
✔️ Financial Forecasting
✔️ Team and Growth

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/167

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Why I'm Retiring My Signature Social Media Course (And, What's Next!)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 May 2020 20:00:00 GMT

It's no secret that my Signature Social Media Program, Hashtags Aren’t the Answer, is my best selling course.

Hundreds of students have graduated from it.

It’s had hundreds of testimonials.

There's been multiple six-figure launches.

And, in full transparency, it brings thousands of dollars into my business every single week.

But this week, I’m retiring it.. forever!

In this week's episode of the Stevie Says Social podcast, I break down why that is.. and what is coming next!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Launching a Podcast at #1 with Kayla Houlihan

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Dec 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Dreaming of starting a podcast and rocketing to the top of the podcast charts?

Well, stop dreaming – because it’s totally possible!

In today’s episode, I interview Kayla Houlihan, the owner of Tribe Skincare. She recently completed my podcast blueprint and launched her podcast, The Bite-Size Biz Room at #1 on the Apple Podcasts Business Charts and #9 overall.

To download my free Podcasting Equipment Cheatsheet, click here.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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What's Working with Facebook Ads Right Now - 11 Top Tips For Success

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 29 Apr 2019 16:00:07 GMT

Just so you know?

There's a LOT of change going down in the world of Facebook ads.

What worked even six months ago doesn't work anymore.

Competition on the platform is increasing, and ad costs are rising.

Case in point?

Two years it would cost me $100 to acquire 300 leads.

Now, it's $300 to acquire 100 (on a very good day).

With the changing landscape, it's no longer enough to know simply how the Facebook ads manager works.

Instead, you need to know the strategies that work.

In this week's Stevie Says Social podcast episode, you'll learn what's working in Facebook ads right now.

Salesly ads don’t work. User experience is key.
Social proof is more important than ever.
Be careful of split testing TOO much.
Personal, native looking ads work best.
Use the faces that represent the people that you're attempting to target.
Get your Facebook Pixel sorted.
The Facebook ad algorithm is getting smarter, so bigger audiences are working.
Pay attention to what happens after the click.
Remarketing is a must.
Use Instagram Placements - don't just focus on the Facebook newsfeed.
Know your numbers.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Good Karma Business | There's Enough 'Yoga' to Go Around

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 20 May 2018 16:00:00 GMT

One thing I’m really super passionate about is that we are all, as small business owners, in this together.

Whether we’re all working in digital marketing, or copywriting, or real estate, or whatever, I truly believe that it’s by supporting each other that we succeed.

NOT by competing.

Not by looking over the fence and comparing.

And certainly not by tearing others down.

I call it good karma business, that's what we'll be chatting about in this episode.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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The Four Essential Elements of Social Media Success

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 16:00:25 GMT

In this episode, we cover the four essential elements of social media success.

So many small businesses are stuck in the social media vortex; posting over and over and over, hoping to gain traction but just not getting the results they want.

Usually, it's because they don't have one or more of these four essential elements sorted. Here's a summary of what they are:

Branding
Social Media and Content
A Selling System
Traffic

Pin this!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Revealed: Our Full Back End Set Up Process For A Brand New Offer

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Curious EXACTLY how we went about setting up the back end of a brand new offer?

Not just the theory, but the here's-exactly-how-we-did-it nitty gritty?

Delivering with excellence is both art and science, and in today's podcast episode, we're breaking down exact how we have set up the back end of our membership, Lifestyle Business School.

Whether you are thinking about creating a new course, program or coaching offer, or you already have one and it's feeling a little scattered, we will share how to build or refine your back end infrastructure so you can deliver well, streamline your business operations to give your time back and provide you with the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are building intentionally and with excellence in mind.

PS Prefer to read? We break it down in full blog post style here.

Links and Resources Mentioned in Episode:

Free Failed Payment SOP: Get the exact Standard Operating Procedure template we used to recoup failed payments in our online business.
BRAND New Deliver and Delight Course just added to Lifestyle Business School: Deliver and Delight is the FULL playbook for implementing stand out, streamlined delivery processes for any high or low touch course, program, coaching offer or mastermind. We hand you our done for you workflows, standard operating procedures and automations for the three phases of managing any online offer.

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[Series Pt 5] Launches Are Wobbly. Evergreen is Dying. Here’s What’s Working

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Here’s what we know right now:

Launches are inconsistent;
Evergreen has lost so much steam that it’s mostly just (at best) a lead generation engine at this point;

.. And, that the answer isn’t to keep doing the same old.

In this podcast episode, I break down the sales system I recommend right now, and why.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Get the Online Business Model Map I Recommend for 2026: https://lifestylebusiness.school/profit-plan-lm-1

Evergreen Funnel Case Study: How I Made $27,813 in 2 Months (And Why It’s Not Passive Income): https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/p/evergreen-sales-funnel-case-study

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Mapping Out Your Course Curriculum the Easy, Breezy Way

Stevie Dillon — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 06:00:00 GMT

This is our final day of our five day series of free Course Creation Classes.

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Instagram DM Sales Strategy (It All Goes Down in the DM!)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Jun 2020 20:00:00 GMT

It ALL goes down in the DM.

The Instagram DM, that is!

If you haven't given too much attention to your Instagram DM Sales Strategy in the past, you are missing out on leads and sales.

Why?

Because your DM is a sales channel.

It is one of the most powerful places to connect with your potential customers and clients.

It is a space to serve, to overcome objections, to get to know your followers more.. and ultimately, if the time is right for them, to turn them into clients and customers.

In this podcast episode, I am revealing a few of the nuggets included in my new Instagram program around this very topic to show you the power of DM, and why it needs to be a (huge) part of your Instagram sales strategy.

Here are a few Instagram DM Sales Strategy secrets we cover in the episode:

Four ways you can use Instagram DM to build your business (without ever needing to leave the Instagram platform)
The three step strategy for systematically generating sales from your Instagram DM
How to use Instagram Stories, Lives and IGTV to generates leads from your Instagram DM sales strategy
How to approach selling inside of Instagram DM
The different options available for contacting people via Instagram DM
How to conduct an Instagram DM sales conversation (without ever being salesly or sleazy)
How to close sales and ensure that you're never leaving money on the table

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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What Course Platform and Tech Do I Need to Create an Online Course?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Stuck spending late nights googling which course platform or tech you need to create an online course?

If you're still 'thinking' about creating an online course but you haven't yet gotten started, my guess is that the answer is yes.

Obsessing over online course tech and software is one of the biggest blocks that stop people from getting started.

It's course-procrastination at its finest!

Let me overcome this hurdle for you and break down the tech and software you need to create your online course, and my recommendations for tools and platforms.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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The Seven Deadly Social Media Sins

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 27 Nov 2018 00:12:38 GMT

There are Seven Deadly Social Media Sins that so many small businesses make.

It’s IMPORTANT to learn what these are.

Why? Because you don’t know what you don’t know - right?

If you’re DOING social media but you aren’t doing it right, you’re not going to get traction. You’ll be spinning your wheels.

In this episode, I'll go through the Seven Deadly Social Media Sins, and then you can see if you're guilty in any of them.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Write Social Media Copy with Personality, with Ami Williamson, Damn Write

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 08 Apr 2019 16:00:42 GMT

One of the most important elements of branding? Killer copy!

This episode is ALL about how to write social media copy with LOADS of personality to make your brand stand out.

Ami is a writer of personality-driven copy, lover of a good laugh and slightly evil genius. She helps brands get clear on their personality, so that they can show up consistently, stand out in a noisy marketplace and attract their dream clients.

In this episode, we chat about:

Where copywriting sits in the branding mix;
The importance of understanding your brand personality and the process of then applying it to the words you use to write marketing mix.
Where social media sits in the marketing mix;
The importance of niching down when defining your ideal client so that you can create a brand to attract the right people, rather than trying to speak to everyone and sounding ‘vanilla’;
Write like a human and inject your brand personality in the way you craft your copy;
How to define your ideal client - keep a real person in mind;
Brand archetypes and how to use them to craft your brand and write killer marketing + social media copy;
How to write with personality;
Writing copy has two elements to it - what you say, and how you say it. Both are important;
Write how you speak;
Knowing what to write ABOUT and how to come up with content ideas for your social media content;
Write for people a step before they need you to attract people to your social media channels at the right time;
Check the engagement on your social media accounts, and your competitors social media accounts, to see what content is resonating with your audience.
Why the best copy doesn't always come from your own ideas, and the importance of understanding and conducting research on your customers
How to write a killer Instagram bio and a break down of Ami's bio and the different elements;
Ami's tips and tricks for write marketing copy when you aren't a natural writer;
And MORE!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Please Stop Making These LinkedIn mistakes

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Please, for the love of all things good and holy, STOP making these LinkedIn mistakes.

Some of them are affecting your visibility.

Some of them are affecting your reach.

And I hate to say it, but some of them are really hurting your online reputation and personal brand.

If you’re gonna invest time and energy into doing LinkedIn, you really want to do it right - right?

So, I’ll make it easy for you:

Here’s the mistakes you NEED to stop making, STAT.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Get Inspired to Start and Grow the Business of Your Dreams with Kaylene Langford, StartUp Creative

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 26 Mar 2019 05:30:09 GMT

Want to start and grow the business of your dreams?

If so, this is the episode for you.

Whether you’re still in corporate and you’re dreaming of more freedom, or you’re a business owner wanting to take your biz baby to the next level, there is some gold in here for you.

Kaylene Langford is the founder and co-director of StartUp Creative. She is a business coach that works with people to help them realise their potential and exceed their own expectations.

In this episode, we chat about how to start and grow the business of your dreams.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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[Series Pt 3] A Damn Good Life: $400k, 4 Days, 40 Weeks, $4m

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT

In the last episode we unpacked why chasing scale past the tipping point often makes everything harder. The fix? Clarity on your endgame, and a focus on the smallest, simplest and lightest model for achieving it.

Of course, you’re welcome to clarify your own endgame.

But to make things easy, I’m simply going to share a beautiful and realistic sweet spot endgame that represents a damn good life for most online experts.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Get the Online Business Model Map I Recommend for 2026: https://lifestylebusiness.school/profit-plan-lm-1

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2022 Year in Review - A Business, a Baby and a Rebrand, Oh My!

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 21 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT

A business, a baby, a rebrand, oh my! 2022 has been big, beautiful and bloody tough at times.

In today's podcast episode, we are digging into this year's year in review, something that I do every year and which gives me an opportunity to reflect on the year.

In this podcast, we cover:
👉🏻 Having a Baby
👉🏻 Rebranding the Business
👉🏻 Operational Elegance
👉🏻 Space
👉🏻 The Mental Load
👉🏻 Ghosting
👉🏻 Time With Babies
👉🏻 Launching TWO New Offers At Once
👉🏻 Investing and Building Personal Wealth
👉🏻 Travel
👉🏻 Impact

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/179

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💸 Money: How I Make It, Manage It and Grow It to Make Work Optional

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Active income is never passive.

Work is work.

But the income from your work can be funneled into assets that CAN be passive – and that, ultimately, is the game.

[Read the full blog post here].

These days, I am passionate about sharing that message with others.

Even moreso in this online business world, where we have the capacity to build high profit margin businesses.

And, where a little know how on what to DO with that income is life-changing.

And so, in today’s piece, I am sharing with you the six steps for building a business that will one day allow you to make work optional and to enjoy true passive income.

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Predictable Profits, LBS Price Increase and a Simple System for Growth (Plus a Brand New LIVE Class)

Stevie Dillon — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 05:00:00 GMT

👉 I’m hosting a brand new live class on October 24th called The Predictable 3-Part Operating System for Building a Simple, Time Leveraged, Online Course Based Business Model or Revenue Stream. To register, click here.

Over the past two years, I have realigned, re-imagined and re-built my seven-figure business from the ground up to deliver high profits, working 5-hour days and with 400% more creative fulfillment on the daily.

It’s not hype – it’s the truth.

And, it seems that many are following suit.

It’s nice to be a trailblazer, and at the same time I feel compelled right now to transparently share what I’ve learnt.

I’m hosting a free class later this month that I have been working on for weeks, and in today’s podcast episode I am sharing with you:

The shifts I have made in the last 12 months, and how it feels to be on the other side;
The changes and price increase coming to Lifestyle Business School, and how you can get in before it happens;
The five checkpoints to move through to build out the system for a leveraged business, and why you need them all in place prior to focusing on growth;
My thoughts on multiple offers and when the right time is to expand;
The system I used whilst traveling to simplify my growth and how it worked to focus my energy, effort and output and to achieve my goals without working more.
All about my brand new masterclass on 24 October: The Predictable 3-Part Operating System for Building a Simple, Time Leveraged, Online Course Based Business Model or Revenue Stream. To register, click here.

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7 Counter-Intuitive Lessons From 7 Years in Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 16:00:00 GMT

It’s official ONE WEEK until my 7th business birthday (and my ACTUAL birthday! 🎈), so I thought it a good time to reflect on 7 lessons I’ve learnt from 7 years in business.

Here goes!

1️⃣ It’s okay to leave money on the table.

2️⃣ Traditional business advice might not apply.

3️⃣ There isn’t one right way of doing business.

4️⃣ Everything is a solvable problem.

5️⃣ Take the action and the outcome will (eventually) take care of itself.

6️⃣ On indecision.

7️⃣ Make your success a habit.

Read the full blogpost here.

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[Series Pt 7] The Magic Metric For $400k Profit Years

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 19:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I share the final tweak to your business model and syste,s, after re-modelling to keep things light and simple:

Tracking your progress to the $400k profit sweet spot with one magic metric – and then knowing what to do with the profit once you get there!

Mentioned in this Episode:

Get a Ticket for the $400k Profit Plan Workshop (to be held 24 November): https://www.lifestylebusinessschool.co/tyis8awr

Get the Online Business Model Map I Recommend for 2026: https://lifestylebusiness.school/profit-plan-lm-1

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Real Talk: Should You Create a Membership Site? Part Two

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 06 May 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Pre PS We've currently waitlisted our Lifestyle Business School program and we'll be reopening soon. Join the waitlist here if you want to get updated on the best deal and the special VIP bonuses soon as we re-open doors.

Last episode I talked about some of the cons of having a membership site as your offer.

Now, let's switch sides and talk about the pros of building a membership site.

And, when you go into it with realistic expectations - there are many!

I do think it's important to start with the cons however, because they aren't usually considered and it's the reason people become disillusioned and give up.

Memberships can be magical - with some big ifs and buts.

They can be magical 🪄... IF:

You are willing to do the work (because, it's WORK - and a lot of it);

You have the mental fortitude to deal pragmatically with cancellations;

You have a spirit of optimisation and genuinely want to improve and be of service;

You have an understanding of numbers and a willingness to learn more advanced concepts, memberships:

And, your offer suits it.

If you've ticked yes to all of the above, memberships can over time become a fairly lucrative money making machine.

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BTS: The Six-Step Creative Process Behind $2m+ in Online Course Sales

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Ever wondered EXACTLY how I create digital courses?

The nitty gritty "I do this, then this, then THIS"?

I have been creating online courses now since 2018, and have learnt a LOT about what works and what doesn't when it comes to the "creative process".

When developing my very first digital course in 2018, I went to Bali for six weeks, wrote a 50,000 word manuscript in the final week because I had no idea what else to do and then came back to spend the next six months figuring out how to make it into a course that people would buy (more on that in this episode)!

I don't recommend that approach 😉

With more than $2 million in digital course sales now under my belt, my creative process has developed over time and in today's podcast episode I break down exactly how I do it now.

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Grow Your Business and Free Your Time By Creating a Mini-Course in Just Six Weeks

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Let me guess: You love what you do, but you've spent this year stuck in an endless loop of busy-ness where you've found it tough to BREATHE, let alone truly escape your business for a minute and live your life.

That's where a mini-course comes in.

Whether you eventually want to create a FULL online course, you already have one or maybe you just want a more consistent and steady stream of leads into your coaching or expert business to free up some of your time and make more revenue, a mini-course is a great place to start.

By the end of today's podcast episode, I am sharing with you an easy-launch guide for creating an irresistible mini-course and getting it out there into the world in under 6-weeks so you can get started, finally cross it off your "to do" list and build a super valuable leveraged asset in your business to drive leads, supercharge your authority and divorce your value from your time.

In fact, that's exactly what 26 of our members inside of Lifestyle Business School have done in the past six weeks, and we're so proud of them! We'll share some of their courses (created from SCRATCH in just six weeks), and hopefully inspire you to do the same!

Let's get started!

PS Our Lifestyle Business School members have been working hard and have created their own mini-courses in just six weeks using our Create and Validate process! And, they have made them all available for YOU to register for for free! Browse and register for one or more (all kicking off in Jan) at https://www.lifestylebusiness.school/freecourses

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The Seven Deadly Online Course Sins "Successful" Course Creators Make

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 21 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

You'd think that hitting $100k, or $500k, or $1 million in online sales would mean you've MADE it, right? I mean, all of your revenue goals have come true! You're awesome! You did it! Everything is PERFECT!

Only... so often, that ISN'T actually the case.

In fact, experiencing that "first taste" of success is often a dangerous place to be in. It's very easy at this point in your online course business to fall into the "trappings" of success, and commit one of what we like to call the "Seven Deadly Experienced Online Course Creator Sins".

I know, because I've been there myself.

In today's podcast episode, we'll be covering the Seven Deadly Experience Course Creator Sins, why they are so common, and why I personally feel so passionately about helping others avoid them. So much so, that SOLVING these problems is going to be a 'central pillar' in our business rebrand!

Here’s the seven deadly ‘online business sins’ newly minted course creators that have had a taste of success fall into:
👉🏻 The Frankenstein Offer Suite
👉🏻 Chasing an Arbitrary Revenue Goal
👉🏻 Too Hard, Too Fast
👉🏻 Following Someone Else’s Dream
👉🏻 Confusing “Cashflow” For Wealth
👉🏻 The Relentless Pursuit of MORE
👉🏻 Marketing Obsessed, Poor Delivery

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/171

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Lessons from an $87,000USD Online Course Launch

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 12 Oct 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Ever wanted a sneak peek behind the scenes of a successful online course launch to see what REALLY happened? The good, the bad... and the "lessons and learnings" for next time?

If so, this episode is for YOU.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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7 Counterintuitive Things I Am Doing to Grow My Business in 2024

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Wondering how I am thinking about business "growth" in 2024? The things I am focused on to build my version of the lifestyle business sweet spot? The actions I am taking that go against the grain of "traditional" business advice?

That's what I'm breaking down in today's podcast episode where I'll be sharing with you 7 counterintuitive things that I am doing to build my business in 2024.

Links and Resources Mentioned in Episode:

Episode 158: Our Podcast Makes Us $8,300 an Hour — Here’s How
Free Failed Payment SOP: Get the exact Standard Operating Procedure template we used to recoup failed payments in our online business.
BRAND New Deliver and Delight Course just added to Lifestyle Business School: Deliver and Delight is the FULL playbook for implementing stand out, streamlined delivery processes for any high or low touch course, program, coaching offer or mastermind. We hand you our done for you workflows, standard operating procedures and automations for the three phases of managing any online offer.

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😴 Sales in Your Sleep: The Evergreen Funnel Formula Working Right Now for Automated Profit

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT

You know the whole “money in your sleep” thing?

“Build a funnel and watch the money roll in whilst you’re catching z’s”?

The truth is, it’s real – but not in the same way it’s been taught, sold and done online for the past few years.

[Read the full blog post here].

The standard advice is that you set it up once, flick the switch to “on”, and watch the sales start rolling through the door.

As much as I’d love to sell you that strategy, it doesn’t quite work that way.

That’s the bad news.

The good news?

Is that when done the right way, at the right time, using principles that work right now, and the right “full funnel” strategy, an evergreen funnel can become one of the most powerful automated workhorses for generating bonus profit in your business.

In today’s piece, I am going to share with you how to build out an evergreen funnel system to sell your online course, program or membership the RIGHT way.

(No BS or unrealistic promises included).

Side note – We have just added a fresh new course soldier to the Lifestyle Business School lineup. It’s called Automate and Accelerate, and it’s a step–by-step, here’s-exactly-how-you-do-it system for building out an evergreen funnel system to sell your offer/s on autopilot.

It includes the full strategy for creating a front end evergreen funnel to make sales immediately, and then the three to six month back end ecosystem to continue to cycle your leads through a series of offers to make profit.. without lifting a finger.

You can check out Automate and Accelerate and join us in Lifestyle Business School here.

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How to Start a Successful Youtube Channel for Your Business with Louise Henry, Solopreneur Sidesick

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 14:31:30 GMT

Ever wanted to start a successful Youtube channel for your business, but you’ve been unsure where on earth to start?

Or perhaps you haven’t even considered Youtube, but when I tell you that it’s the second BIGGEST search engine after Google [aka a huge opportunity for getting your business searched by new eyeballs] you start paying a little more attention?

Either way, this episode is for you!

In episode 31 of the Stevie Says Social podcast, I interview Louise Henry of Solopreneur Sidekick. Louise has committed to producing two episodes a week on Youtube to market her business online and as someone in the trenches, she was the PERFECT person to speak to about how to get started!

Links + Resources

HG Logitech c920 webcam.

ATR USB Microphone

Quicktime

iMovie

Tools:

Keywords Everywhere

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Three Ways to Be More Social on Social Media

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 20 May 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Media and traditional advertising has always given businesses the opportunity to distribute a message to an audience. Social media ain’t traditional media, though. And treating it as such by *just* pushing out content, ads and talking about yourself is one of the BIGGEST mistakes a business can make.

Why?

Well, it’s called SOCIAL media for a reason.

Its real power lies in the opportunity it gives your business to connect DIRECTLY with your potential clients. Once you know who your ideal client is, social media allows you to find where they’re hanging out online, to connect with them and to have REAL, two way conversations with them.

Over time, that allows you to develop a relationship with them and – if you provide them with value – for them to like, know and trust you enough to want to do business with you.

With that said, in this episode, I am giving you three top tips for putting the ‘social’ into your social media efforts.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Find and Hire a Social Media Manager

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 17 May 2018 20:43:34 GMT

If you've been DIY'ing your social media, but you're ready to find and hire a social media manager - a GOOD social media manager - this is the episode for you.

Today, we're covering seven red flags to look for when hiring someone to manage the socials for your business.

Here goes.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Create a Killer Social Media Strategy (A Case Study)

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 03:12:39 GMT

Let's get one thing straight.

Crossing your fingers and hoping for the best isn't a social media strategy.

I see TOO many businesses dive in, set up their socials, start posting like crazy and then STRUGGLE. Struggle to gain followers. Struggle with the follow/unfollow rubbish currently going on on Instagram. Struggle to get their posts seen. Struggle with what to post.

So, rather than talking all social media strategy theory and watching your eyes glaze over, I thought I’d use the journey to launch Stevie Says Social (my own company) as a case study.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Using Social Media to Build a Successful Business | Interview with Pru Chapman, Owners Collective

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 02:30:45 GMT

Pru Chapman heads up Owners Collective, which is dedicated digital community for early stage entrepreneurs, providing tools, tips, education and inspiration to help people create sustainable and profitable businesses.

In this episode, we chat about the following:

Pru’s story and the journey of Owners Collective;
The importance of building a strong community on social media;
Email marketing and its importance;
How to incorporate Facebook Live into your strategy – even when you’re scared of it!
And much, much more.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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👵How to Retire Early in 10 Years on $80k Forever (Yes, Really)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Want to retire early in 10 years, and live on $80k forever?

With a lifestyle business, you can.

[Read the full blog post here].

People want a quick win, and the industry sells the pipedream of a gazillion dollars in two seconds.. but if you’re willing to develop the skill of being a course creator?

A LOT can happen in 10 years ⌛️

A. LOT.

Here’s the cliff notes:

Invest $10k a month from the profits of your high cashflow online course business for 10 years (instead of spending it on Gucci bags, a big team or lifestyle creep).

At year ten, you can retire with $2m in the bank.

You’ll take $80k a year for the rest of your life without depleting the balance.

Here’s your road map for retiring in 10 years, if you start today 🗺️:

1️⃣ Commit to developing the skill of being a course creator. Create one flagship course.

2️⃣ Develop your skills to sell 300 a year at $1000 each. That’s $200 - $300k. Spend one third of that on expenses/tax, a third on your salary and set a third aside ($120k a year).

3️⃣ Invest the one third you set aside into assets (eg stocks, property). In ten years assuming a 10% average annual return, you’ll have over $2million.

4️⃣ At this point, you’ll have the option to retire early. Spend 4% a year each year after that forever and you’ll have $80,000 in annual income without depleting the balance (Google the 4% rule).

5️⃣ But if you do it right? You’ll probably still be loving what you do so much you don’t even WANT to stop anyway.

This, my friends, is what it means to build a lifestyle business.

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👋 How I Bring in Leads (What’s Working Now)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 16:00:00 GMT

To get sales, you need leads!

To get leads, you need traffic!

So, how do you get it?

What’s working now?

[Read the full blog post here].

The truth is, times have changed.

The landscape is crowded.

Ads are costly.

And getting attention feels about as easy as screaming to a band to pull you up on stage in the middle of a rock concert.

So let me lift the lid on how I do it, and what’s working right now.

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💰 Q4 Money-Making Season: The Five-Step-Prep For Your Biggest Quarter Yet

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 16:00:00 GMT

So, you have big business goals – incredible!

What’s your plan to achieve them?

Q4 is sneaking up on us, and as anyone in online business would know that means prime money-making season!

There is a lot of opportunity in the final three months of the year.

[Read the full blog post here].

Whether you’re well behind on your annual sales goal or you’re simply looking to maximise the opportunity that this time of year brings, preparation will give you the BEST chance of making this your biggest quarter of sales yet!

The best way to prepare?

With a simple, actionable marketing plan.

If you haven’t created yours yet, now is absolutely the time.

Planning ahead will allow you to get strategic, and squeeze the most juice out of this prime time on the online business calendar.

In today’s piece, we will walk through how to create a simple marketing to smash your Q4 goals, and set yourself up for a strong end to what has for many been a more trying year.

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Real Talk: Should You Create a Membership Site? Part One

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Pre PS We've currently waitlisted our Lifestyle Business School program and we'll be reopening soon. Join the waitlist here if you want to get updated on the best deal and the special VIP bonuses soon as we re-open doors.

Should you create a membership site?

So often, it's sold as the ultimate dream:

"Create a membership site and you too can enjoy recurring revenue - forever", they say.

Which is kind of true.

Only, it also comes with a very, very big asterisk:

Memberships are one of the most advanced, psychologically trying, long-game, difficult leveraged business models out there.

And, no-one is sharing THAT when they are selling the dream.

In October 2023, I launched my very own online membership site.

Believe me when I say that I have aged 26 Internet years in the months since (just kidding - kind of).

Here's the truth though:

They are no joke, and this is coming from someone with six years in the online business space, experience in every leveraged business model under the sun, an advanced understanding of data and advanced marketing concepts and serious grit and resilience.

Cliff notes, though: I am a sucker for punishment and I actually enjoy the game of it.

But, honestly?

I think I'd be in the minority here. It's kind of like an Ultra Marathon runner:

It takes a special breed to want to put yourself through it, but it's worthwhile if you have what it takes, you're willing to play the long game and you're up for the task 😅.

If you're finding yourself wondering "should I create a membership site?", I want to share with you the cold, hard truth about running a membership site based on my own personal experience.

Take from it what you will. My hope is that it will help you go into this model with eyes wide open, because misaligned expectations is the ultimate dream killer.

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Don’t Build Businesses. Build Personal Brand Projects Instead!

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

This one is aimed squarely at you, my little ‘personal brand-based’ founder darlings — in other words, the current and aspiring content creators, consultants, coaches, freelancers, creatives and knowledge-based founders of the Internet.

Over a series of five podcasts (because brevity ain’t my strong point), I’m going to break down for you everything I know about how to set a personal brand based business for big fun, big freedom and BIG money.

In this episode, we're starting strong 🥃

I'm covering how to set yourself up as a personal brand based business the right way from the start to feed and fuel MULTIPLE, DISTINCT NICHES..

.. in a way that doesn’t bore you to tears, destroy your soul and keep you trapped in a box that feels like the online equivalent to maximum security prison for your happy, creative, multi-passionate little soul.

Episode Show Notes

00:00 The importance of finding your niche
00:34 The cold hard truth about personal branding
01:37 Projects over businesses
02:24 Understanding personal brand-based businesses
04:29 Personal brand-based business vs. traditional business
06:30 What is a personal brand?
08:00 What are business interests?
10:23 Examples of personal brand projects
16:52 Conclusion and next steps

———

Recommended next episode:

→ This is Part One in a series - subscribe to the podcast to get the next one the second it drops!

Links Mentioned:

→ 'Don't Build Businesses! Build Projects!' - Read this article on Substack

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How to Create an Online Course That Sells Right Now

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 16:00:00 GMT

How do you create an online course that sells right now?

The truth is that times have changed, and what worked even just a few years ago no longer does.

The online course market is maturing, and with the growth many are starting to wonder:

"Are people still buying online courses?"

Here's my two cents:

Yes they absolutely are, but it’s uneven at the moment.

Some people are killing it and some are finding it tough.

If you're wondering how you can create an online course that sells right now, here are seven things to keep in mind.

1. Cultivate Trust and Authority

2. Contracts Create Friction

3. Creating an Online Course That Sells Requires Transparency

4. New Offers Require Time in the Market

5. Positioning is Everything

6. Risk Reversal is Extra Helpful

7. Trust and an Irresistible Offer Are King and Queen Right Now

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Three Layers Deep: All Aboard the Niche Train

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

To stand out and sell — always, but especially in 2025 — you’ve gotta niche.

Happily (especially if you are a personal brand), that DOESN’T mean putting your sweet little multi-passionate self into a box for twenty years and throwing away the key.

But it DOES mean that you should create individual PROJECTS under your personal brand (I talk about that more in part one of this series here) and niche them sufficiently so as to cut through.

How? Choose a market that has in-built demand, and then to go three or four layers deep to specialise within it. In this episode, I show you how.

PS This is Part Two in a five part series to help you set up a personal brand for success. You can view Part One here, and subscribe to the podcasts for the other posts in the series to come!

Episode Shownotes:

00:00 The importance of niching
01:25 Common mistakes in niching
03:06 Stages of business development
09:17 The need for a niche in a crowded market
12:31 Three-step process to effective niching
13:04 Step 1: Choosing a profitable market
17:05 Step 2: Going one layer deeper
18:14 Step 3: Niching by vehicle
25:29 Conclusion and next steps

———

Recommended next episode:

→ Part One in the Series: Don't Build Businesses! Build Projects!

Links Mentioned:

→ 'Three Layers Deep! All Aboard the Niche Train' - Read this article on Substack

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My Top 7 Tips for Building a High Profit, High Leverage and High Happy Business Model

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 26 Feb 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Here's 7 things I see holding business owners back from their goal to build a leveraged business model.
This is based off seven years of experience and working with hundreds of online founders, and noticing patterns.
I hope recognising these will help you to shortcut the process.

[PS Our newsletter is live! Subscribe here].

1️⃣ Time & the Hockey Stick Effect
Building a leveraged business model takes MORE time upfront, and less time later on.
2️⃣ Misaligned Positioning
Get clear on who your offer serves, and match what you do to their problem.
3️⃣ Too Many Offers
At max, you need three offers - an audience offer, a core offer and an anchor offer. They should all complement and feed into each other.
4️⃣ Not Applying Scalable Traffic Strategies to a Scalable Business Model
The traffic strategies that work for a 1:1 or service business model won't be enough when trying to sell a leveraged offer. More units to sell means that you need more eyeballs to see your offers.
5️⃣ Not Making ROI based investment decisions
Once you have the offer sorted, learn the math involved to make ROI based decisions to invest wisely to grow.
6️⃣ Solving the Wrong Problem
Knowing the problem, and solving the right one, will cut your journey in half (or more)
7️⃣ Product-Model-Founder Misalignment
There is no right way of doing online business, only what is right for you.
You need clarity on your endgame, and the model that fits you as the founder.

In Lifestyle Business School, we focus on a structured approach to building a leveraged, expertise-based business model - actively working to avoid these pitfalls to build an aligned model with structured strategy that is right for YOU.
Join Lifestyle Business School at lifestylebusiness.school/join.

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Back to Business Basics: Burning It Down and Starting Again

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 16:00:00 GMT

📫 BRAND NEW! Subscribe to the NEW Lifestyle Business School newsletter here.

In December last year I phased out my primary (only) offer in my business in the name of business model re-alignment. And, in many ways, I'm starting again. I'm in a messy creation phase right now. So, a few days ago, I started documenting the journey of re-building my business.

This podcast shares more of that process, including behind the scenes insights.

BRAND NEW! The Lifestyle Business School newsletter where I'll also be sharing how I do the work, test and experiment and inch forward step by step in my business.

If you want to follow me in this journey, subscribe to my newsletter and share it with others too!

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Leaving Money On the Table = The Best Business Strategy?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 16:00:00 GMT

I don’t care about leaving money on the table.

I don’t care about “maximising” my revenue” or getting the “most” out of every day.

Here’s what I do care about:

Spend Tuesday mornings at a 10am Pilates class. Stuffing around making labels for my new spice racks just because. Googling cool new hair-dos for my little girl. Sitting on the floor with her at 2pm on a Friday, playing hairdressers.

I care about travel. I care so much about travel. I care about renting a month-long Airbnb in Norway just because. And getting a van, and traveling around the English countryside stopping at every cute pub along the way. I care about driving down the California coast. Showing my kids Hearst Castle. Visiting Old Town Ibiza, and sipping Sangria at 10pm on a hot August evening.

I care about feeling free – really, truly free. Waking up on a Monday and relishing the week ahead. Spending the morning sitting in a cafe, writing for three hours over two half-strength cappuccinos. And never again sitting in an air-conditioned cubicle with no natural sunlight, taking orders from a girl called Samantha and waiting for Friday.

I care about life.

And living it, unconventionally and messily.

And having fun.

And being the poster girl for living free.

And above all?

After building a $2.5m business to the ground in the name of wild alignment, NOT sacrificing all of that at the altar of some arbitrary revenue goal that won’t even give me more of what I want.

That’s why I have the business I (now) do.

And the values I (now) have.

And it’s why I’m now so passionate about sharing with others my ethos for building a simple, highly profitable one-person + a tiny team style business to the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot ®

In this week's podcast, I'll be sharing with you the Seven Commandments of Building a Business to the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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[Podcast Best Of] 💸 Money: How I Make It, Manage It and Grow It to Make Work Optional

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

In this week's podcast, we'll be revisiting through our Podcast Best Of series on how we make, manage and grow money in order to make work optional.

Active income is never passive.

Work is work.

But the income from your work can be funneled into assets that CAN be passive – and that, ultimately, is the game.

These days, I am passionate about sharing that message with others.

Even moreso in this online business world, where we have the capacity to build high profit margin businesses.

And, where a little know how on what to DO with that income is life-changing.

And so, in this throwback episode, I am sharing with you the six steps for building a business that will one day allow you to make work optional and to enjoy true passive income.

———

Recommended next episode:

→ ❤️‍🔥😍 Sexy Budgeting, Finances and PROFIT for Online Business Owners

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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When You Launch, You Learn (How to Kick the Dreaded Launch Rollercoaster to the Curb)

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 25 May 2021 19:00:00 GMT

If you've ever launched an online course in the past, you'll be familiar with the launch rollercoaster.

And if not, let me give you the cliff notes because trust me, if creating and launching an online course is on your radar at ALL it's better to be armed with insights into what is to come - and NO-ONE is immune.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Behind the Fold: Finding Balance and Alignment in Motherhood

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Let's talk about finding alignment and balance in new motherhood, especially when your traditional business model and success no longer serves the life you want to create.

In this podcast episode, I share my experience with running a business and raising 2 young kids, finding myself again and building a business that truly lights me up.

This is an interview that first aired on Rachelle Saevils 'Behind the Fold' podcast, where she shares interviews breaking down the real and raw BTS of motherhood and business.

We discussed:

• 5:38 - My business growth, fears and preparation during and after my first pregnancy.
• 12:57 - The time in between my first and second child of feeling unaligned and conflicted, that caused me to rethink my whole business model.
• 20:00 - The experience and struggles of having my partner become the primary care giver while I continued working.
• 23:30 - How my motherhood identity and mindset changed from one birth to the next.
• 26:15 - Learning about the power of self care, slowing down and being okay with extended timelines when it comes to goals.
• 34:00 - Focusing on what matters most to you, even if it means a revenue dip in your business for a season.

I hope this episode encourages you to seek balance among all the areas you may be juggling in whatever that might look like for you- give yourself some grace.

If you love this episode, definitely check out Rachelles podcast, Behind the Fold.

———

Recommended next episode:

→ I'll be doing a motherhood and business Q+A podcast episode soon. Have a question for it? DM me on Instagram here: @steviedillon_

Links Mentioned:

→ Behind the Fold Podcast on Spotify

→ Behind the Fold Podcast on Apple Podcasts

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How to Set Marketing Goals in Your Business (and Avoid Shiny Object Syndrome)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Wondering how to set marketing goals in your business, so that you can actually achieve all of those things on your business wish list?

No?

Well, you bloody should be.
What’s that saying? Oh yeah.

Fail to plan, and you plan to fail.

Here’s what NOT to do when it comes to your marketing.

Listen to a podcast
Hear latest social media guru (yes, that includes me) tell you that X is the latest and best thing
Immediately drop everything else you are doing and haphazardly try to implement said thing into your business without ever considering where it sits in the bigger picture.

And yet, it’s what so many of us are doing without even realising.

No WONDER marketing seems overwhelming.

Here’s the thing.

At the end of the day, there are a LOT of great traffic strategies out there (and social media, by the way, is simply a traffic strategy). But that doesn’t mean that you should be doing them all, or all at once.

Shiny object syndrome is banned ‘round these parts.

In this podcast episode, I am going to give you a crash course in how to set marketing goals to help you focus on doing ONLY the things that move the needle.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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The Secret to Earning $500+ an Hour as an Online Business Owner

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Pre PS. Want to start the new year with CRYSTAL CLEAR CLARITY on your 2024 business and LIFE endgame? Join Lifestyle Business School now and get instant access to Dream and Design. It's included in Lifestyle Business School, and it has HUNDREDS of glowing reviews; I don't speak lightly when I say that completing this process in mid-2023 changed my business and my life for the better. Join here.

Did you end 2023 feeling a bit tired of watching other business owners make bank, fly private and spend their December in Bali, when you were sitting at your desk chugging your eighth coffee and wondering how the flip you were going to make it to the end of 2023 without a breakdown?

I mean, I've been there and I get it.

So, now that we've well and truly closed the book on last year, we have a whole shiny new year ahead of us to make a plan to do things differently.

In today's podcast episode, I am sharing with you the EXACT steps required to build a business model that will allow you to end THIS year doing things in a more leveraged way. The secret? Starting NOW.

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What's Draining Your Battery?🔋

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Let's talk about the difference between the amount of TIME you spend on something, and the amount of ENERGETIC capacity it takes up.

It's only recently that I have started to realise that there is a very big difference between the two, and have started optimising for energetic alignment as much as time.

My Original Personal Effectiveness Process - Time Optimisation

Every 90 days, I have ALWAYS completed a time audit.

It's incredibly helpful for identifying where my time goes, and to optimise it to start using it better.

Here's the three step process I have traditionally completed:

Step One: Analyse my time. Every 90 days, I would audit every minute of my work time.
Step Two: Audit my time. Once I had a list of everything I completed in a week, I would categorise them into departments and groups of tasks to get a snapshot of where I was spending my time.
Step Three: Action. Finally, I would review the list and decide what delete (stop doing altogether), delegate (give to someone else or a tool to complete) or decrease (use Parkinson's Law to allocate less time to get it done).

By consistently completing this process, I was able to optimise my time to the point that I was completing ONLY the tasks I needed to, and was able to optimise the amount of time I spent doing those things, too.

The catch?

Realising that doing so was important and necessary, but that I was also missing one big and important step.

The Missing Step Four: Reviewing What's Left in Terms of Energetic Alignment.

Here's what I realised.

That there is a big difference between the amount of time you spend on something, and the "energetic capacity" that same task could take up.

And that by NOT reviewing my task list in terms of energetic alignment, I was able to drastically reduce the AMOUNT of time I was spending doing certain things, but not the energetic capacity I had left at the end of the day.

Because, whilst the tasks remaining on my plate didn't take huge TIME, they did take a lot from me.

If you're a personal effectiveness aficionado like me?

I highly recommend listening to today's episode.

Optimising for energetic alignment just as much as time might be the missing link for you, too.

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Red Hot Testimonials: Collecting Money-Making, Business-Shaping Testimonials to Grow Your Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 29 Jan 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Testimonials are money-makers, plain and simple.

If you want to bulletproof your authority, shorten your sales cycle and give your buyers peace of mind that they are making the right decision, you NEED a process in your online business for collecting, distributing and SHOUTING YOUR TESTIMONIALS FROM THE ROOFTOPS.

Whether you're newer to business and wondering how to get social proof when you're just starting out, or your a seasoned business owner with people raving about you but no solid process for capturing all of that goodness, this is a must listen and business game changer.

Prefer to read? Click here, and we break it down in FULL blog post style in detail.

Links and Resources Mentioned in Episode:

Ep 162: Don’t Take It Personally: Inviting Frank, Fair Feedback from Your Clientele and Using It to Improve
Free Failed Payment SOP: Get the exact Standard Operating Procedure template we used to recoup failed payments in our online business.
BRAND New Deliver and Delight Course just added to Lifestyle Business School: Deliver and Delight is the FULL playbook for implementing stand out, streamlined delivery processes for any high or low touch course, program, coaching offer or mastermind. We hand you our done for you workflows, standard operating procedures and automations for the three phases of managing any online offer.

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Life Update: Seasons, Adjusting to Life as Primary Parent, Domino Habits and Getting My Spark Back

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 16:00:00 GMT

I haven't launched anything for nine months. I have been dark on social media, and I have only sporadically appeared on this podcast. So you might be wondering - Stevie, where have you been? What have you been doing and what is coming next? And if you have, you're gonna love today's podcast episode.

And if you haven't, then this is the episode that you didn't even know that you wanted!

Episode Shownotes:

00:00 Introduction and where I've been
00:52 The concept of seasons in business
05:16 Rediscovering myself: music and reading
07:35 The power of domino habits
13:27 Balancing business and parenthood
17:13 Clarifying my mission and future goals
24:02 Conclusion and final thoughts

———

Recommended next episode:

→ Ep 250: I’ve Worked 5 Hours a Week Since March. Here’s How.

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Getting Your Head (and Expectations) Right

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 19:00:00 GMT

🤥 There are some WILD mis-truths, half-truths and flat out porky-pies 🐽 in the online business world.

I get it, people use it to sell stuff... but in many ways it's harmful, it’s creating a culture of wildly misaligned expectations of the work involved in creating something great and it's causing people to feel like they are “failing” just because they aren’t having CRAZY unrealistic results in two second.

The truth is?

Misaligned expectations killed more dreams than failure ever did.

In today's podcast episode, we're talking through the difference between first and second order consequences, and why we need to be more honest about BOTH in our marketing.

Here's the cliff notes:

Every action (or inaction) you take has BOTH first and second order consequences – and although it might not feel like it at the time – BOTH are a gift.

First Order Consequence – The immediate, usually short-term, consequence of an action you take.

Second Order Consequence – The longer term, longer lasting, consequence of an action you take that usually comes AFTER the first order consequence.

The problem with anything worthwhile (and the reason people “give up” at the first sign of hard work?); is that the first-order consequence is commonly considered undesirable, while the second-order consequence is infinitely worthwhile.

Here’s the truth:

The leveraged online business you desire and deserve is SO possible for you, and so worthwhile – if you’re ambitious, committed and (really) want it.

Just like in the OFFLINE world, when you are building something worthwhile – it takes time, energy and effort.

The industry sugarcoats this, and tries to tell you that if you’re working hard?

You’re doing it wrong. BS.

Big dreams require hard, upfront work and that’s the truth.

Too many people stalling before they get to the GOOD STUFF is the reason that we’ll never sugarcoat that.

The end (PS -- you should listen to the poddy episode, too).

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[Podcast Best Of] Our Podcast Makes Us $8,300 an Hour -- Here's How

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

First up in our walk down memory lane, we revisit for Podcast Best Of how our podcast makes us $8,300 an hour!

“I don’t have TIME to start a podcast...”
“The tech is overwhelming, I don’t know where to start...”
“But what if I run out of topic ideas?”

If you’ve EVER considered starting a podcast, it’s likely that one of these “buts” have stopped you dead in your tracks. And, I get it.

In a world where we’re all frantically trying trying to run a business, maintain a social life, juggle family, drink enough water, text everyone back, stay sane, survive and be happy (PHEW), adding another ‘thing’ to the list can feel like the actual definition of insanity.

Plus, you need a mic, you need to learn how to edit, and -- sure you could probably Google it but every time you do -- it feels like you’re drinking water from a fire house. Not to mention the imposter syndrome that creeps in every time it enters your mind like, "Who am I to start a podcast?” Says your mean girl/guy brain.

"Why ME?! What if I run out of ideas? Do I even KNOW enough to create a podcast each and every week?"

In this throwback episode, you’ll learn why you need to kick all of the “buts” currently holding you back to the curb and go all in on what will likely become the single biggest ROI marketing activity you do in your business.

✔️ Our Podcast SAVES Us Time (Our Three Hour/Month Podcast Workflow);
✔️ Podcasting Makes Social Media Easier;
✔️ The Tech is Dead Easy;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/158

----------

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Behind the Scenes: 2023 Unwrapped 🎁

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Pre PS. Want to start the new year with CRYSTAL CLEAR CLARITY on your 2024 business and LIFE endgame? Join Lifestyle Business School now and get instant access to Dream and Design. It's included in Lifestyle Business School, and it has HUNDREDS of glowing reviews; I don't speak lightly when I say that completing this process in mid-2023 changed my business and my life for the better. Join here.

Do you feel like this year passed by in a blink? It feels like yesterday that I was tucking myself into bed at 8pm on New Years Eve (yes, 8pm).. and now here we are at the end of another shiny year.

Today's podcast episode will be released on Boxing Day, and I hope this finds you happy, well and rested.

This period between Christmas and New Years Ever is always a time for rest, reflection before ticking over of the calendar on 1 January has us all looking forward, so in today's podcast episode I want to share with you MY year that was, the things I've learnt and what I am taking into 2024.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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Attention on Tap: How to Bake Serious Buzz 🐝 Into Your Personal Brand Based Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Read this series on Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

For your lifestyle business to really SING, there’s one final step in the four part personal brand series – to turn what you’ve conjured up so far and giving it a talkaboutable edge!

Getting this right from the outset is like sprinkling magic fairy dust on your business.

Having a talkaboutable edge to what you do bakes BUZZ right into the very fabric of your business, and makes people stop, sit up and pay attention when you start talking about it.

It also makes everything you do to try to get attention after that point about fifty million times easier.

In this episode, we walk through exactly how to do it:

00:00 Introduction to talkaboutable edge
00:18 Recap of previous episodes
00:50 Defining talkaboutable edge
03:55 Examples of talkaboutable edge
08:30 Steps to create a talkaboutable edge
10:03 Developing thought leadership
16:01 Creating a mission-based business
17:49 Crafting a unique concept
22:07 Infusing your concept into your business
28:30 Conclusion and next steps

———

Recommended next episode:

→ Part One (Don’t Build Businesses. Build Personal Brand Projects Instead!): https://lifestylebusiness.school/276

→ Part Two (Three Layers Deep: All Aboard the Niche Train): https://lifestylebusiness.school/277

→ Part Three (‘You Talkin’ to ME !’ – Market Well to Sell, Sell, Sell): https://lifestylebusiness.school/278

→ Part Four (Attention on Tap: How to Bake Serious Buzz 🐝 Into Your Personal Brand Based Business): https://lifestylebusiness.school/279

Links Mentioned:

→ Read this series on Substack: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

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I Make More From This ONE Thing Than My Entire Corporate Salary (Hint: It's Not Courses)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Welp, it's that time of year again. End of financial year has just wrapped (in Australia), and it's time to reflect on the financial "year that was".

From a financial perspective, it was our best in business yet.

That wasn't the surprising bit, though.

THAT came when I looked at the breakdown of my revenue streams... and realised that there was one very unexpected one that accounted for a good chunk of revenue.

So much, in fact, that it represented MORE than my entire corporate salary in my very first marketing job.

And, even more surprisingly?

It was about 95% passive... which is a lot more than I can say for the rest of the online business industry (despite the cries to the contrary all over the Internet).

Curious to know what it was?

It's all in today's podcast episode.

PS If you have ever gotten value from our podcast, I would be so grateful if you could take a moment to leave a quick rating and written review. It takes two minutes, and would make my day.

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📈 Why Compounding is the Secret to a Freedom-Based Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Let's talk about the power of compound interest in ALL areas of your life - and especially, for those seeking a freedom-based business that leverages and divorces their time from their value.

Compounding is a financial concept that involves earning returns not only on the initial (monetary) investment but also on the accumulated (monetary) interest or gains over time.

Example: Let's say you invest $10,000 today, and each year you earn 10% interest.

In year one, your total earnings is $1,000 on your initial investment, for a total of $11,000.

But by year TEN? Your original sum has compounded because each year, you have earned interest on not only the original $10,000 but ALSO on the 10% interest each year.

Your investment has snowballed to $27,000(ish) and the MAJORITY of that is made up of the interest earned from the original investment.

They say compounding is the eighth wonder of the world, and there's no wonder why.

In today's podcast episode, we're applying the concept of compounding to each of the building blocks required for a wildly profitable, time leveraged online business, and how you can use it to create a genuinely freedom-based business (if you are willing to do the work up front).

SIDE NOTE -- Our Four Week Business Model Mini-Program kicks off TODAY! If you aren't registered yet, there is still time. We will be talking about concepts like this, and what it takes to build a freedom-based business that gives you time, freedom and happiness in spades (but that doesn't sugarcoat what it takes to get there). Sound like your jam?

Register here.

When you do, you'll get access to our free community too - where we can continue the conversation on this podcast!

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Which Expert "Type" Are You, And Are You Building the Right Model for Your Type?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 19:00:00 GMT

PRE PS. Dream and Design - our 100% free (this one time) four week business model program for those who want to design or redesign a clear and compelling vision for an expertise-based online business that feels wildly aligned. We kick off NEXT WEEK on September 12th - register here, join the 1,500 already registered!

❌ Not all expertise-based businesses are built the same.

First, though, let me define what I mean by expert business: It's a leveraged expertise-based online business that can be defined broadly as a model in which you are packaging up your Intellectual Property into something leveraged and scalable.

They are, in my opinion, the MOST leveraged and profitable model on the internet.

Here's the disconnect, though.

Not all expertise-based business models are built the SAME.

And there are, sadly, too many people coming into the industry lured in by time, freedom and happiness who are unwittingly building a fatal flaw into their model from the outset - they are building the wrong model for THEM.

When someone wants to move into online education, there are many ways that you can structure it. Getting this wrong for the TYPE of "expert" you are is a fatal flaw, and it is the reason that many people who COULD be making a living doing what they love end up exiting the industry because it doesn't work for them.

It's not that the model is broken, or that THEY are broken - it's that they built an unaligned model that was NEVER going to suit the type of "expert" they are in the first place.

In today's podcast episode, I am sharing a simple framework to help you to know:

Which TYPE of expert you are; and
Based on that, the model of expertise-based online business that is best suited to you.

Let's get into it!

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🌏 Last Minute Eurotrips, Self-Sabotage and 2-Year Olds on Planes

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Have you ever dreamed of jumping on a plane and running away?

[Read the full blog post here].

Wanting to live the laptop lifestyle and work from anywhere but unsure how to *actually* do it without your business burning down?

Wonder how all of those people on Instagram every European summer actually afford to do it?

In a week, I am jumping on a very last minute plane to Eurosummer, family (including a wild 2-year old and lively 4-year old) in tow.

This hasn’t been something I’ve had on the planning list for a long time (please listen to last weeks podcast episode where I share about losing my Mum for more context on my snap decision).

More than anything?

This trip is an exhale.

This trip is therapy.

And, this trip is a complete disconnect from reality, to reflect, honour, enjoy and heal.

At the same time, I know there will be some wondering how I can be so lucky or privileged to make this happen. Which, of course, I am.

But, it’s not all that. And maybe, it could be possible for you too.

If you’ve ever dreamt of an extended trip and feel compelled or inspired to make it happen, in today’s podcast episode I am going to share how I’ve done it, what it is costing, my thoughts, fears and nerve-citement around doing it with young children and all of the nitty gritty.

Let’s dive in.

PS. Here's the link to the card I use (I get points if you use my code, my travel fund thanks you).

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😱 The One Metric That Could Sink Your Next Launch

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Truthbomb: The ONE metric just about every single person underestimates is the amount of traffic they are able to deploy for their online course or group offer launch.

[Read the full blog post here].

They put BIG effort into a launch, and maybe secure a handful of sales.

On “paper”, it performed great and achieved all of the benchmarks for success.

But still, THEY consider it a flop.

The culprit?

They simply didn’t drive the volume of traffic required to achieve their sales goals.

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How to DIY Your Facebook Ads (And Why It Just Got A Whole Lot Easier)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Want to DIY your Facebook Ads but have NFI where on earth to start?

If so, you’re not alone.

Facebook Ads have always been a powerful way for small businesses and solopreneurs to get in front of their dream clients, but - for many - they have always been a little bit of a dark art.

When you are trying to run a business, it’s often always just one ‘to do’ at the end of a very long business to do list.

The thought of going beyond the boost button and deep diving into all things Facebook Ads Manager to set up your own Facebook Ads is a daunting thought.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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🙏 Grief, Loss and Showing Up as a Personal Brand Business Owner In Difficult Seasons (I’m Back)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 16:00:00 GMT

This is a story about grief, loss and how to navigate it as a personal brand.

[Read the full blog post here].

Almost six weeks ago now, I lost my beautiful mum.

(It hurts to type that).

It feels like my security blanket has been ripped from under me.

I feel alone, exposed and honestly? Just so very sad.

Here’s the thing as a personal brand business.

Personal things happen.

They bleed into business.

And as a result, running a very front-facing business in challenging times feels extra challenging – something that has absolutely been my experience over the past while.

Today, I want to share a little about my experience navigating profound loss as a personal brand.

—

Helpful Resources:

Insanely helpful conversation:

Navigating Grief [ft Therapist Gina Moffa] – With Sam Vander Wielen. I resonated with so much of this. It talks about personal brand businesses in particular, and I listened twice.

Feeling seen:

Motherless Daughters – Grief support for mother loss. Simply scrolling through these has helped me a lot, the posts are real and reflect a lot of the things I think myself. Simply knowing I am not alone has helped immensely.

Questions and conversations with loved ones:

List of Questions for Interviewing Your Loved Ones – Brendon Burchard wrote this list of questions he asked his Dad.

Lucy Percy at Head and Heart Estate Planning sent me some Legacy of Love conversation starters (not sure if she is offering these, but her Instagram is useful also).

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🙌 Simple Scales: Swipe This ‘Less is More’ Lifestyle Business Blueprint

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Simple scale, complex fails.

Has a catchy ring to it, right.

And, a whole lotta truth.

Here’s how I know.

[Read the full blog post here].

As a person, I am naturally someone that tends to overcomplicate things.

Give me a task to complete, and I will somehow singlehandedly find the most complex, convoluted way of completing it.

Back in my corporate days, I worked as a Marketing Manager.

Working closely alongside me was our PR Manager – who was the exact vision of what you would expect a PR Manager to be.

Vibrant, sociable, vivacious.

And, light on detail.

Whenever we were given a project to work on, she and I would approach things so very differently.

I always admired her approach:

Pick up the phone, get it done, smiling all the way.

Meanwhile? I would sit at my desk for hours upon hours, writing up complex plans and generally just overcomplicating things.

Of course, both were strengths in a way – and our very different approaches complimented each other.

When I started my business, though?

I noticed myself taking that same tendency to complicate things into it.

And, let me tell you:

THAT did not serve me well – until, it did.

In many ways, it was my tendency to overcomplicate things that resulted in the business I have today.

I have spent many years learning the art of simplicity.

As a result?

I create online courses sharing the same simple strategies I created for MYSELF to eliminate my tendency to overcomplicate.

Of course, old habits die hard, and the truth is?

That still every day I have FIGHT MYSELF not to overcomplicate my business.

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⏱ I've Worked 5 Hours a Week Since March. Here's How.

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 16:00:00 GMT

This isn’t a piece on passive income.

It’s not a piece on the freedom to work from anywhere.

Or, to pick up and travel the world.

Instead? It’s about building a drop everything business and how I built it.

[Read the full blog post here].

You see, when most of us think of course or digital-product based businesses we think of the fun freedom that it may one day give us the opportunity to enjoy.

We aspire to build the “bucket list” business:

One that creates deep impact for those we serve, whilst simultaneously giving us time, freedom and happiness in spades to spend time with little ones, live without financial burden and go on extended staycations.

I know I sure did.

Happily, six (almost seven) years of hard work, trial and error in, I have mostly done that.

But, here’s the clincher.

It’s not the “bucketlist” business that I have been the most grateful for this year.

It’s the drop everything business.

It’s building a business that has afforded me the ability to scale back and work less not by choice, but by necessity.

From about March on this year, I have worked around 5-hours a week.

The fact that I even COULD – without financial burden or business ruin? – is something that I will always be eternally grateful for.

And so, in today’s podcast episode I want to share with you some of the things that made that possible for me.

The truth is that it is, unfortunately, highly likely that at some point in all of our business careers there will come a time that we’re forced to slow down, pause or stop business as usual for less-than-desirable reasons.

It might be a diagnosis, or a chronic health condition, or an accident.

Whatever the reason, having the foresight to know HOW to set your business up in a way that supports you even when you aren’t “in it” is, I think, a superpower and a gift.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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Designing Your WILDLY ALIGNED Expert Business: Here's What It Takes

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

PRE PS. BIG NEWS! I'm launching my upcoming program for FREE (for now!)

It's called Dream and Design - it is for current and aspiring expertise-based online business owners who want to design or redesign a clear and compelling vision of an online business that achieves their version of the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot.

Register here to take a step closer to YOUR Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot.

Let's get straight into it.

A sustainable lifestyle business requires wild alignment.

Here's seven types of alignment to focus on to achieve just that:

Hint: We'll be covering most of these in Dream and Design (register here if you haven't yet!)

✔️ Business Model Alignment
✔️ Passion Alignment
✔️ Authority Alignment
✔️ Offer Alignment
✔️ Time Alignment
✔️ Endgame Alignment
✔️ Expectation Alignment
✔️ And MORE!

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Why I Decided to Create a Membership

Stevie Dillon — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Lifestyle Business School is officially here! 🎉 This is a complete business operating system ⚙️ for building an expertise-based online business to the lifestyle business sweet spot.

Here's the catch... It’s a different offer to anything I‘ve created before.

After our podcast episode this week showing you a sneak peek behind the scenes at our brand new offer, I thought some of you may be wondering WHY.

So in today's BONUS podcast episode I'm going to spill the beans on why I decided to create a membership..

Here's that we cover:

✔️ Reason 1: Free Communities Suck

✔️ Reason 2: I'm Realistic About The Journey

✔️ Reason 3: Finding People with a Common Endgame Matters

✔️ Reason 4: This is Truly a One-Stop Shop

✔️ Reason 5: This Will Not be a Vanity Launch

✔️ Reason 6: I Can Build This Up Over Time

Lifestyle Business School FOUNDATION opening is on until Tuesday. We're currently offering very special pricing and some epic launch bonuses, including a six week sprint and the opportunity for us to promote you! To join us before Tues, head to: lifestylebusiness.school

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❤️‍🔥😍 Sexy Budgeting, Finances and PROFIT for Online Business Owners

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

REPEAT AFTER ME: DO NOT MANAGE YOUR BUSINESS BY LOOKING AT YOUR BANK ACCOUNT.

Hands up if you're guilty of this!

Here's what it looks like:

Opening up your banking app.
Taking a quick squeeze and using the "cash in the bank" to assess the "health" of your business.
Making decisions on spend based on the figure you see.
Rinse, repeat.

It's normal for a LOT of businesses to operate this way.

The truth is though? It's problematic, ESPECIALLY so, when you have a business that has inherently "lumpy" income. Lumpy income means that you don't have a consistent "amount" ending up in your bank account each and every week, and it's really common for course creators (and all online business owners).

Oftentimes, we're launching so we will get a big cash injection in one month thanks to pay in full payments, and then slower months where you have MRR (monthly recurring revenue) from older payment plans still coming in. Or you might sell year round (no launch model), but you have a BIG influx of pay in fulls and have an unexpectedly big month whilst other months might be unexpectedly smaller -- even if you hit your "goal" intake numbers.

In these circumstances, running your business by simply looking at your bank account could land you in serious hot water.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Implications of Managing Your Business By Your Bank Account;
✔️ Set PERCENTAGE Budgets;
✔️ Use Revenue as MRR to Set DOLLAR Budgets;
✔️ Allocate Your CASH COLLECTED Monthly Into Your Buckets;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/185

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If I Was Starting From Scratch, Here's How I'd Scale a Business to $1m.

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Wondering how to start and build an expertise-based online business NOW? Today, I'm going to spill the beans on EXACTLY how I would do it if I was starting from scratch TODAY.

The strategy, the how, the "what I'd do differently if I could do it again" - in today's podcast episode I am going to walk you through my full thought process, and how I have implemented much of this in my own business this year.

By the end, you'll have complete clarity on how to go about building your OWN expertise-based business based on timeless business strategy and what's working now.

---

PS Our Lifestyle Business School members have been working hard and have created their own mini-courses in just six weeks using our Create and Validate process! And, they have made them all available for YOU to register for for free! Browse and register for one or more (all kicking off in Jan) at https://www.lifestylebusiness.school/freecourses

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[Podcast Best Of] Building Authority and Becoming a Micro Celebrity in Your Niche

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 29 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Tough love-bomb 💘💣

Without authority, you will find it incredibly tough to sell.

And without authoring content (literally, the “author” in authority), you will find it incredibly tough to build authority. It’s as simple (and as difficult!) as that.

Think about the people that you buy from and work with online. Most likely, you decided to do so because you had developed a sense of rapport and trust with them through the content that they created and shared online.

If you want a sustainable business online, you can’t simply show up and start selling and expect for people to flock through the door.

If you want an expert business, in which people look up to you as a thought leader and want to follow your processes to achieve the transformation promise of your course? You NEED authority, and authoring content. Well, it’s a complete non-negotiable.

For our last Podcast Best Of episode, we revisit five tips for building authority and becoming a thought leader in your niche:

1️⃣ Commit to a Core Content Channel
2️⃣ Take a Stand and Stake Your Ground
3️⃣ Be Consistent AND Consistently Awesome
4️⃣ Build Multiple Touchpoints
5️⃣ Create Micro Content

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/156

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Our BRAND NEW '5-Hour a Week' Marketing Plan: Revealed

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 23 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

No one wants a marketing plan, but EVERYONE wants to make more money, right?

And even more so, they want to do it in a way that doesn't mean posting 132 Instagram stories, labouring for hours over their next Instagram post, wasting precious time trying to come up with content ideas and dropping BIG money on ads with no ROI to show for it -- right?

And that, my friends, is the power of a simple, powerful marketing plan.

So, let's breakdown the process we used inside of our own business this year to build out a marketing plan in an hour, and to then spend no more than 5 hours a week making it come to life.

This is the strategy we will be using to further establish our authority and go-to status in our industry, to ensure that we are attracting perfect fit clients into our business and to create a bulletproof attraction system that brings BOTH new people into our ecosystem and primes the ones already in it to purchase from us.

You ready?

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Where a Marketing Plan Sits in the Full Ecosystem;
✔️ Front-End Marketing Is Only One Component;
✔️ Data Focused;
✔️ Our Chosen Marketing Channels;
✔️ KPIs;
✔️ Workflow;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/182

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9 Steps For Building TRUE Wealth (Time, Money and Freedom) as an Online Business Owner

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 06 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

TRUTHBOMB: You DON’T have to scale your business to the moon (and in fact, the pursuit of doing so might be costing you dearly).

Here's how to set yourself up for LIFE - both in terms of revenue, wealth and your TIME (aka the ultimate freedom) - and enjoy the ride along the way.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Stop listening to people with a completely different endgame to you;
✔️ Swap "scale" for "simplicity";
✔️ Go deep, not wide;
✔️ Create very specific organic content;
✔️ Stay small and serve deeply;
✔️ Grow slowly;
✔️ Watch your time;
✔️ Invest cashflow;
✔️ Don't sacrifice your health;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/184

----------

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The Most Profitable Digital Product You Can Create

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 01:00:00 GMT

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New Business! New Brand! New Podcast! New Mission! Introducing The Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the LIFESTYLE BUSINESS SWEET SPOT.

Our new business brand, The Course Cartel, is hellbent on achieving it, in living in it, and in helping other like-minded, ambitious good humans live in it too.

It's our ethos.

Our unique approach to "doing" online business.

Our mission.

And now, the focus of our 2.0 Podcast, aptly ALSO named the "Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot".

Today heralds the beginning of our new era as we introduce our NEW podcast to you, and just as importantly, our NEW business brand. The mission across both is the same; to cultivate a collective of people all aligned towards a common goal:

The Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot -- An impactful digital course business earning $250k+/year profit, working 5-hours days, with a mostly clear calendar and a lean, remote team.

We're NOT one of those businesses that sugarcoat the work to get there:

From start to finish, it's a three to five year journey.

We're also not for everyone, and that's okay.

Maybe scaling to the moon is more your jam? And if so, all power to you!

Maybe you'd rather follow and work with someone that sugarcoats and glosses over the hard work required in the early days. And if so, there are plenty out there.

But if you're ambitious, capable and willing, and you value a business that will ultimately grant you freedom, impact and happiness over relentless scale at any cost, we're for you.

In today's episode, we share more about the ethos behind the new brand and how, no longer content with being "just another course business", we're boldly stepping into our UNIQUE place to make REAL waves and a big difference.

Welcome to the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot.

In this podcast episode, we share:
✔️ The BIG Opportunities We Saw To Stand Apart
✔️ How We Intend To Serve You Through The Entire Journey
✔️ Our Clarity Around Our Values
✔️ The Podcast

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Introducing Lifestyle Business School ⚙️ Nitty Gritty BTS and Sneak Peek Inside 👀

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 19:00:00 GMT

We've launched a BRAND new offer! Lifestyle Business School is officially here, and this podcast episode is a sneak peen behind the scenes at the offer, the "why" behind it aaaand everything you might be wondering about our pivot, the program and whether it's for YOU!

Peek the sales page here, and register for the free masterclass where we break down the full lifestyle business operating system here.

➡️ Lifestyle Business School is currently OPEN for FOUNDATION MEMBERS with special pricing and suuuuper special bonuses (including a six week LIVE sprint, $1,200 in free software (not kidding) and more.

Any questions about Lifestyle Business School that I HAVEN'T covered in this podcast episode? Ask here!

In today's podcast episode, I cover:

Why I Created Lifestyle Business School
My Mission and Vision, and How Lifestyle Business Fits Into It
How This Offer Was Created
Who Lifestyle Business School Is For
Why It's For BOTH Ends of the Experience Spectrum
Why a Membership
The Included Curriculum
The Roadmap Style of the Program
My Future Vision
And much MORE!

I'm BEYOND excited to get this offer out into the world. There is nothing like it on the market, I hope to see you inside.

For a sneak peek at the sales page and to join us? Head to http://www.lifestylebusiness.school/

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Advanced Strategies for Growing Your Online Course With John Lint, KLEQ

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 19:00:00 GMT

There are two ways to win at online business.

One? Brute force. “Hustling” all of the hours. A focus on “being productive”. Being a good little “worker bee” and working long, hard hours to elbow your way into the success that you so desire..

The other? Working “smart”. Focusing on EFFICIENCY over productivity. Setting up structures, systems and automations to create a high profit margin digital business without a big team or long hours. Building out customer lifetime value and increasing average order value to make MORE money with FEWER sales, reducing complexity and allowing you to serve your people deeply and get (handsomely) compensated for it.

I know which I’d rather.

In today’s podcast episode, we speak to John Lint. John is the founder of “all in one” online course software KLEQ.

KLEQ is an incredibly powerful tool that allows you to work efficiently, to automate and streamline your online course processes, to save BIG on individual software subscriptions and to implement SMART strategies for making MORE profit without more hustle or needing a huge volume of leads and sales.

(And P.S. For the next few days, they are inviting you to trial it for just $1 and - if you like it - to stick around for another five months at 50% off).

In this episode, John and I talk about how to think SMART about your digital course business, and how the right tools can assist you to build out a simple, powerful business with a focus on profit.

And even better? To do it without “hustle”, stress or complexity.

In this episode, we discussed:
👉🏻 Why the software you invest in matters (and how to choose wisely);
👉🏻 Strategies for generating more leads after your first launch (without needing a huge email list to sell);
👉🏻 Ways to segment your audience to increase your conversion rate and profit;
👉🏻 How to make more from every sale;
👉🏻 And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/180

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Planning Your Intentional Pause ⏸

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Next week, I head to Europe for two and a half weeks. For one and a half of those at the start, I will still be working "in" the business. And for one (at the end), I will be completely off.

I'm calling it the "pause".

The semicolon.

Not quite a full stop, but more? A re-set, re-alignment and re-examination.

A time to stop and re-examine my old "yeses", and determine whether they still align today.

Because that's all life is, isn't it?

Our surroundings, circumstances, lives and businesses - all simply direct results of old "yeses" we committed to at some other time.

And which may (or may not) still serve us.

To do that requires space, and in my view?

A change of circumstance, and of scenery.

Something to jolt you enough OUT of the norm to intentionally consider whether that NORM actually still serves you.

In this podcast episode, we discussed:
✔️ My Pauses to Date
✔️ A Pause Should Be a Necessary Prerequisite for Every New Season
✔️ The Critical Importance of Product-Market-Founder Fit
✔️ Getting Clear on What You Want
✔️ And MORE!

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How to Productively Create Content Without Overwhelm as a One (Wo)Man Show

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Do you struggle to create content consistently? Have a habit of getting bursts of inspiration, and then fall off the hamster wheel entirely? Do you wonder how OTHERS manage to keep up with a consistent weekly content system when they’re juggling a million competing business and life priorities? Do you wish someone would just give you a simple damn system that works?

In today’s podcast episode, I share the simple system we use inside of our business to create consistent, content that helps to sell our offers — and the best thing is? It works EVEN if you’re a one (wo)man band.

We walk through each of these steps in detail —

✔️ Step #1 — Choose a Planning Timeframe

✔️ Step #2 — Pick a Content Theme That Aligns With Your Sales Goal For That Period

✔️ Step #3 — Align Content Theme With Your Campaigns

✔️ Step #4 — Use Your Content Theme Across ALL of Your Content

✔️ Step #5 — The Planning Session

✔️ Step #6 — The Creation Session

✔️ Step #7 — [Optional] Amplify the Best Performing Content With Engagement Ads

✔️ Step #8 — Rinse and Repeat

And that’s it! Our system for creating consistent content — even if you’re currently in content paralysis, keep falling off the bandwagon and wonder if it’s all worth it.

If you want to build your thought leadership, authority and visibility in your space, valuable content is an essential element of your marketing strategy and this is the system that is working for us to do just that. Enjoy!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/143

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How Helena Made $30k in the Last Days of Her First Launch

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 03:00:00 GMT

Newsflash: Becoming a successful business owner (course creation included) takes courage, tenacity and grit.

Helena Nikola, founder and creative director of Helena Nikola Interior Studio and Home Done Differently, is a Perth-based interior architect and designer creating multi-layered and emotive homes with her signature flourish of élan.

The way Helena took learnings from her first launch to pivot into a $30k launch on the final day is proof of that (not to mention? Her launch ALSO cascaded into several HUNDRED thousand dollars for her service business too - wild).

Would you like to know how Helena Nikola made $30k in the last days of her first launch?

In this podcast, we cover:
👉🏻 The catalyst for Helena wanting to creating a flagship online course;
👉🏻 Helena walks us through the process of lead generation and how she begun with no email list and a brand new Instagram account;
👉🏻 Late nights, tears and re-writing her webinar and how Helena went all in to make $30,000 in her first launch of Home Done Differently;
👉🏻 The strategies Helena used to beat her mindset blocks and how she intuitively identified the gaps and opportunities to give her absolute all;
👉🏻 And MUCH more!

More about our Guest, Helena Nikola:
Find Helena on Instagram here: www.instagram.com/home_done_differently
Check out Helena's websites at: hnis.com.au + https://www.homedonedifferently.com.au
Find free step-by-step resources to select your perfect white paint and to create perfect finishes and colour palettes for your home: https://www.homedonedifferently.com.au/free-resources

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/177

----------

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Expectation v Reality: Recapping My 2023 Season of Monster Change

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Pre PS Our Black Friday deal is live. Get Operational Elegance bundled into Lifestyle Business School for the duration of your membership. This is a 99% saving on the original price of Operational Elegance (which was originally sold as Legacy for $20,000 in a high ticket format). Get it here.

Let me tell you: The way I THOUGHT this year would go, versus the way it went? WORLDS APART.

This week marks my birthday, and my business birthday, and it's always a time of reflection.

On the years gone by, what worked, what didn't and what I want to do next month, next year, next SEASON.

This year, I have grown as a person, as a mother and as a business owner.

It wasn't always easy - making big, courageous decisions never are - and it wasn't always fun. Growth, especially in self, is usually uncomfortable. But I'm ending this year feeling proud.

Of myself. Of this business, and the impact it continues to make. And more than anything? I feel excited for the future.. but in a more grounded way than ever before.

In this week's podcast episode, I'm recapping the year that was.. and what's coming next. The theme?

Expectation v Reality; because let me tell you that absolutely sums up 2023 for me.

My expectation in January vs where I'm sitting now?

WILDLY. DIFFERENT.

And, for the better.

Let's dive in.

-----

BLACK FRIDAY BUNDLE REMINDER: Right now? You can get:

Our Operational Elegance program (last offered for $20k);
Bundled with Lifestyle Business School (includes five programs totalling $8,800 in value, plus a community, upcoming template vault, private podcast and a free Kleq six month subscription worth $1,200 - total value $16,000).

For 99.9% off JUST the price of Operational Elegance alone.

In total, it's $36,000 worth of value (Operational Elegance + Lifestyle Business School). Click here to join.

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Launch Debrief Revealed: Behind the Scenes of Launching a Multi-Million Dollar Program

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 May 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Ever wanted a behind the scenes sneak peek into the launch process for a multi-million dollar online program? We've JUST wrapped our final ever group intake of our high level group coaching program Launchpad, with our sixth and final launch.

Let's peel back the curtains and talk about what goes into the uber-successful launches you see online.. and, also? Why the "secret sauce" for success may NOT quite be what you think.

The last EVER day for enrolments into our Launchpad group coaching program is June 15, 2023.

Apply at www.thecoursecartel.com/launchpad

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RIP Stevie Says Social - It's the End of an Era!

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Well, this is (really) it.
After today, Stevie Says Social as a brand is officially no more.
It's been five years, a million cheers... and if I'm honest, a few tears.
Anyone that has started a little business from a seed of an idea in their mind and a knowing feeling that they were made for more will resonate with me when I say that it's a mighty effort.
At the beginning, it's exciting and exhilarating.
You grow.
You learn.
You change.
In many ways, it's the biggest lesson in personal development that you will EVER undertake.
It becomes a piece of you.
A part of you.
(And sometimes, it engulfs you.)

Each year, on your business birthday, you look back and you reflect -
On how far you've come,
On where you're going,
And on whether your path is still aligned with the one you set out and forged for yourself all those years ago.

Sometimes, the answer is yes.
And sometimes, like me, it's not.
And so, on the eve of Stevie Says Social's fifth business birthday, it's time to finally sunset this little brand that has truly given me so much.

Tomorrow, we evolve.
But on today's podcast episode -
It's a time to reflect on the past five years.
To celebrate how far we've come.
To THANK this little brand.
And to say goodbye, to make room for the next iteration of this business that has truly become 'bigger than me'.

In this 'reflection' podcast episode, we talk about:
✔️ The beginning of the Stevie Says Social brand, and how it came to be;
✔️ Honest reflections on the evolution of the business over the past five years;
✔️ What Stevie Says Social has given ME personally, and the ripple effects of impact it has had; and
✔️ What's coming next (and an emotional farewell!)

----------

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Capacity, Cadence & Clarity: The Secret to More Freedom, Time and Calm

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Ready to reclaim five to ten hours of time, know with CRYSTAL CLEAR CLARITY what to work on next and feel certain that nothing will EVER get missed in your business?

You need Operational Elegance 😉

In today's podcast episode, I'm breaking down the three C's of operational elegance, which is the term I use to explain a business that has ditched "hot mess express" for systems, streamlined processes and structure that ultimately hands the founder their time back.

To recap, here's what they are, and why you need them.

1) Capacity: Capacity refers to creating space in your schedule by prioritising the most impactful activities in your business. It requires the following:
a) Auditing and Categorising Your Time
b) Optimising Your Time
c) Leveraging your Time With Systems
d) Leveraging Your Time With (LEAN!) Team

2) Clarity: Clarity refers to setting up clear metrics, benchmarks and data tracking to make intelligent decisions and forecasts in your business.
a) Sales System Data
b) Sales and Revenue Data
c) Scorecards and KPIs

3) Cadence: Cadence is my fave, and refers to setting up rhythms for running both the "big picture" and day to day of your business through planning processes and project management
a) Business Planning
b) Project Management

Next week, we are running a free class called Operational Elegance where we will be sharing how we have installed the three C's into our business, with a revealing insight into our business back end. If you are ready to swap the hot mess express approach to running a business for real structure, systems and streamlined processes to set you free, do not miss this. To register, click here.

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Mo' Offers, Mo' Problems: Why Simple Scales and How to Do It

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

There is a real “trend” at the moment of creating offer after offer; course after course.

At best, it’s a tired approach to “doing” an online education.

At worst, it has the potential to cause reputational damage and operational chaos.

Here’s why.

👉🏻 Multiple Offers Dilutes Focus
👉🏻 Multiple Offers Hinder Student Results
👉🏻 Multiple Offers Eradicate Leverage
👉🏻 Multiple Offers Confuse Your Audience
👉🏻 Multiple Offers Adds Complexity

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/172

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Mid-Year Checkpoint Part #2: Create a 12-Month Revenue Roadmap To Hit Your BIG Goals

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 19:00:00 GMT

PRE PS We have JUST unlocked access to our FREE, three part profit planning series especially for current and aspiring course creators ready to rock their next 6 months in business. Walk away with a simple, strategic plan for creating your own version of success in business and life with a flagship digital course. Get instant Access to Three Juicy Workshops + Planning Spreadsheets here.

Last week, we shared with you that we are opening up FREE, INSTANT access to the Course Creator's Planning Workshop Series we recently held.

And if you're currently flying blind without a strategy - or you HAVE a strategy for your next 12 months in business, but it's not working out for you?

It's for YOU!

You can register here right now.

This is the framework we share with the current and aspiring digital course creators that we work with inside of our high level group coaching program Launchpad.

And, if YOU want a leveraged business model that allows you to reach your big business revenue and lifestyle goals in a way that isn't dependant on your time, it might be helpful for you, too.

Want a sneak peek?

In today's podcast episode, I am sharing with you the EXACT five step process for creating a rock solid / simple / strategic / smart / all 'o the S words (except 'shitty') strategy to set yourself up for a wildly successful, profitable and enjoyable (because revenue at any cost doesn't always lead to HAPPY DAYS, don't you know) next 12 months in business.

We cover:
✔️ Assign a revenue (and time) number to your vision.
✔️ Map out a product suite and determine sales lead targets to achieve vision.
✔️ Plot on a 12 month calendar, and assign key focuses and metrics to every month.
✔️ Break 'big picture focuses' into SMART KPIs and develop step-by-step project plan.
✔️ And MORE!

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The Six Phases of Building a Course Business to the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 07:00:00 GMT

The journey from brand new digital course creator to what we like to call the "Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot" -- earning $250k+ in profits, working 5-hour days with a clear calendar and a lean, remote team -- involves a number of distinct "seasons" and phases.

As much as the online course industry would love to have you believe that you can launch an online course or program, put it on evergreen and sip margaritas on the beach, it doesn't quite work that way.

The good news? It's SO possible for you.

The real talk, though? It involves grit, resilience and perseverence. You've gotta be good (and dedicated.) And it requires a few years of work SO THAT you can live the way that most others want to.

If it was easy, everyone would do it.

In today's podcast episode, we are defining exactly what we mean by a "Lifestyle Business", and the several phases you need to move through as a current or aspiring digital course creator before you hit what we like to call the "Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot".

This week is officially my fifth year in business, and it's only NOW that I am beginning to live in the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot. And so, I will colour the episode with my own unique experiences so you can learn from someone a few steps ahead.

Let me tell you -- it's all so worth it.

And at the same time, one thing I know for sure is that not everyone is cut out for it. This podcast episode might help you to decide whether YOU are.

In this podcast, we cover:
1️⃣ Phase One: The Starting Line
2️⃣ Phase Two: "Build" Season
3️⃣ Phase Three: "Refine" Season
4️⃣ Phase Four: "Operational Elegance" Season
5️⃣ Phase Five: "Sophistication" Season
6️⃣ Phase Six: The Sweet Spot

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/178

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Revealed: How to Turn Social Media Followers Into Sales Without EVER Being “Salesy”

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Posting on social media is the LAST thing you should do. And no, I’m not about to get all “you don’t own your social media accounts” or any other boring, generic advice like that.

What I quite literally mean, is that when you are building out and implementing your marketing strategy, the “posting on social media” bit should quite literally be the LAST thing you do when it comes to the order of when to action steps.

If ALL you have currently done to market and grow your business has been to post on social media, without a clear path to your offers for those people who DO find you on social, this is the podcast episode for you.

In today’s podcast episode, we are breaking down the “build it backwards” strategy for building out your marketing plan so that everything you do is designed to make sales for you!

In essence, the secret is THIS: DON’T start posting on social media or implementing ANY sort of visibility strategy UNTIL you are crystal clear on your offer, and you have built out a back end funnel that leads people directly to it.

So, here’s what to do instead.

1️⃣ Start With Your Offer

2️⃣ Build Out Your Funnel

3️⃣ Create Your Content Plan

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/155

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Should I Create an Online Course, a Membership or an eBook?

Stevie Dillon — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:00:00 GMT

If you've THOUGHT about launching a digital product, one of the first questions you would likely have had is WHAT to create - a course, a membership, or a smaller digital product like an eBook? I have experience in all three, and in today's podcast episode I am going to tell exactly which one I think you should focus on, and why.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Revealed: The Nitty Gritty of Running - OR Joining! - a Group Coaching Program (BTS of Launchpad)

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 02 May 2023 06:00:00 GMT

PRE PS: Have you had "creating a leveraged course, group coaching program" on your "wish list" for far too long? If so, it's time to take action!

We're currently enrolling for our VERY LAST EVER enrolment of Launchpad in a special six month container at a six month rate. We also a super special bonus for those that join us.

To apply to find out more, and to get an invite to our upcoming LIVE private training where we will be sharing the COMPLETE roadmap for creating, launching and scaling a course with you, click here. The live training is in May, but the earlier you apply, the better your bonus! ;)

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Truthbomb: We will NEVER run a program as high touch again at the current price point.

Why?

Because there's a LOT involved in running a group program at the level we currently do.

And so, on the eve of our FINAL intake into Launchpad EVER, we're spilling the beans on EXACTLY what's included in Launchpad, and what is involved in running a group coaching program of this calibre.

Ever wanted to join, but wondered EXACTLY what you get?

Or ever mused over STARTING a group program like Launchpad, and wondered exactly what it takes?

In today's podcast episode, we break it allll down for you!

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Why We Started Launchpad;
✔️ Break Down of the Offer;
✔️ What's Involved in Running a Program of This Nature;
✔️ Things We're Proud Of;
✔️ Hiccups, Mishaps and Challenges;
✔️ The Final Intake of Launchpad;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/196

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How to Build An Audience From Scratch

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

"You need to build an audience of people to sell to!" Says every marketer, ever.

"BUT HOW?!" I hear you cry.

Building your audience - especially when you are just starting out - can feel overwhelming, frustratingly slow and plain difficult to do.

Whether you're just starting out or you're looking to build a larger audience, it's useful to remember that EVERYONE starts from scratch.

You. Me. Gary Vee. Joe Rogan.

EVERYONE.

We all started with zero followers, zero email list, and zero customers and clients.

The most important thing is that you START.

In today's Throwback Thursday podcast episode, we are covering three ways to build your audience - whether you're starting from scratch, or you're ready to take your audience growth to the next level.

✔ Build an audience
✔ Borrow an audience
✔ Buy an audience

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/99a

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Exactly How I Transitioned From Services to Digital Courses

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 26 Oct 2020 19:00:00 GMT

"I don't have time..." - says everyone, always.

We're all busy. Ten busy.

Throw a business and kids into the mix and you can dial that baby up to eleven and beyond.

But there's one thing I know for damn sure: doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result isn't going to change that for you.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Stand Out and Sell Out in More Challenging Market Conditions

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 19:00:00 GMT

We’re not gonna lie — online business over the last year or two has required the navigation of some choppy waters, and it looks like the headwinds for ALL businesses (both online and offline, course-based and otherwise) are here to stay for a season or two.

And, when things in the online business landscape are more challenging (think IOS changes, increasing ad costs and increased competition for attention online amid declining attention spans, interest rate rises, inflation and accompanying economic shifts), there are always two ways to go.

One — wave the white flag, blame your results on market conditions, and give away your power to the “conditions that are”.

And two — realise that there will ALWAYS be something, adapt and evolve and become a better, stronger and more resilient business owner in the process.

Really, they are your options. And for the ones that choose B, there will be a real opportunity over the next couple of years to double down, build an incredibly strong business and lead whilst others retreat.

I choose to believe that there are some truly exciting times upon us right now, and to see the true OPPORTUNITY that these times will give business owners READY to make moves.

So, with all of that said, what sorts of things can we do as business owners to stay strong, both in mind and bottom line, in the face of the shift in online business and economic conditions?

That’s what I’m tackling in today’s podcast episode.

Here’s seven things tips to consider implementing as we all navigate more challenging business conditions:

1/ Don’t blame your results on tighter wallets

2/ Update Your Messaging

3/ Elevate your niche

4/ Offer optimisation

5/ Have fun

6/ Focus on increasing your CLV

7/ Be the leader in your space

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How to Create a Course or Program That Delivers an Epic Transformation

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

💣Truthbomb — the LAST THING YOUR FUTURE STUDENT NEEDS IS MORE INFORMATION.

“Say whhhaaaa?!”, I hear you say.

Yep, it’s true.

In case you haven’t noticed, it’s currently 2022 and we are SWAMPED with more information than we can poke a stick at. Literally, just about everything we could ever possibly want to know is just a Google search away (I actually feel for the people who used to do pub trivia in 2004 before access to a mobile phone, so that they could cheekily Google the answer to every question under the sun (cough not that you would do that, because that would be cheating)).

The secret to a rave-worthy digital course or program, therefore, is NOT more information.

The SECRET (drum roll please 🥁).. is transformation!

In today’s podcast episode, we break down the secret to creating an epic course or program that delivers a tantalising transformation in the most efficient way possible, step by step.

✔️ Articulate the Transformation
✔️ Define the Modules
✔️ Define the Lessons
✔️ Define the Learning Outcomes
✔️ Define the Delivery Method and Implementation Tools

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/151

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Our Podcast Makes Us $8,300 an Hour -- Here's How

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 19:00:00 GMT

“I don’t have TIME to start a podcast..”
“The tech is overwhelming, I don’t know where to start..”
“But what if I run out of topic ideas?”

If you’ve EVER considered starting a podcast, it’s likely that one of these “buts” have stopped you dead in your tracks. And, I get it.

In a world where we’re all frantically trying trying to run a business, maintain a social life, juggle family, drink enough water, text everyone back, stay sane, survive and be happy (PHEW); adding another ‘thing’ to the list can feel like the actual definition of insanity.

Plus, you need a mic, you need to learn how to edit, and sure you could probably Google it but every time you do? It feels like you’re drinking water from a fire house. Not to mention the imposter syndrome that creeps in every time it enters your mind — “Like, who am I to start a podcast?” says your mean girl/guy brain.

Why ME?! What if I run out of ideas? Do I even KNOW enough to create a podcast each and every week?

In today’s podcast episode, you’ll learn why you need to kick all of the “buts” currently holding you back to the curb and go all in on what will likely become the single biggest ROI marketing activity you do in your business.

It is for us — it nets us $8,300 an hour.

Here’s three reframes to help you kick the time and tech excuses to the curb and go all in:

✔️ Our Podcast SAVES Us Time (Our Three Hour/Month Podcast Workflow)
✔️ Podcasting Makes Social Media Easier
✔️ The Tech is Dead Easy

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/158

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Steal This Instagram Stories Highlights Strategy (It's Epic)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Instagram Stories Highlights are one of the most overlooked, but super valuable, features of the Instagram platform. Your highlights feature front-and-centre on your profile when potential followers check you out, and so they are a valuable piece of Instagram real estate.

Are you giving them the time and attention they deserve?

In today's podcast episode, we are covering seven ways you can leverage Instagram Highlights in your business to extend the shelf life of your Instagram Stories, give new followers a stand out first impression of your brand and your business, build the know-like-trust factor, and help you make real sales from the Instagram platform, too!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Create An Irresistible Digital Course or Program That Sells Like Hotcakes

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 12 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

If you don’t have an offer that sells, you don’t have a business — you have a hobby. Full stop, end of story. Your offer is the most critically important element of your course business, and yet it is so often overlooked in favour of.. well, everything.

Although sliiiightly exaggerated, here are some of the things we see:

❌ “I’ll spend two months creating my course; and then start talking on social media about the number of modules and lessons and then wonder why no-one is buying”.

❌ “I’ll listen to my fave marketing podcast talking about the latest fancy funnel strategy and do THAT, because it must be my funnel that isn’t working”.

❌ “I’ll start investing in Facebook ads, that’ll fix the crickets chirping in my bank account!”.

No, no, no.. and just no.

A great course won’t fix an offer problem (which is so sad, because there are so many epic courses sitting on the shelf that aren’t selling for this very reason!)

A fancy sales strategy won’t fix an offer problem (if people don’t want what you’re putting out there, all of the emails in the world won’t save you).

And, a bucketload of new eyeballs CERTAINLY won’t fix an offer problem (there’s no use in 1000 people seeing your offer if they are the wrong people, it isn’t appealing and you’re not articulating the problem you’re solving).

In today’s podcast episode, we’re breaking down how to craft an irresistible offer that has your perfect fit student banging down your door.. and why it’s the MOST important thing to focus on in your business.

Here are four things to consider when crafting an irresistible offer that sells like hotcakes:

✔️ Market: a killer offer to the wrong market won’t sell.
✔️ Specific Result: the ability to articulate a specific result for your course or program is critical.
✔️ UVP: a crowded market isn’t a bad thing; in fact, it’s evidence of demand.
✔️ Value: notice that we didn’t say ‘price’.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/150

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I Cancelled My Launch. Here's Why.

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 06:00:00 GMT

I was supposed to be launching Legacy, my high level program for established course creators, this week.

But, I’m not. The reason is nuanced, but I wanted to share with you my thoughts in the event that it serves you, too.

The intention of the Legacy program is to help established course creators to reach the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot. It’s a mission that many of you aspire to, and I always want to be in integrity when selling something.

And, the truth is? Right now, launching Legacy would move me OUT of the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot.

In today's podcast episode, I'm going to share with you how, in many ways, I applied the Legacy framework to MYSELF to help me make this big decision.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ What I Am Optimising For;
✔️ Space to Evolve;
✔️ My Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot;
✔️ Validation;
✔️ Prioritising Life;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/193

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Why Setting an Arbitrary Revenue Goal is Bad for Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 19:00:00 GMT

❌ Do not do this: Set an arbitrary and likely unrealistic revenue goal for your next 12 months (without any clear idea of WHY you’ve set it), burn yourself out hustling to achieve it and then wonder where it all went wrong.

Here’s what I so often see:

People under $100k a year setting $100k as their revenue goal.

People over $100k setting $1m as their revenue goal.

And 99% of the online business world selling their coaching and programs off the back of being a “6 figure” or “7 figure” business owner (even if it was for a year in 2020).

I’m not a fan of arbitrary revenue goals anymore.

Here’s what I AM a fan of instead:

1️⃣ Getting clear on the EXACT personal profit goal that will fulfil all of your personal, investing and lifestyle needs.

2️⃣ Working out the business profit you need to achieve that (because, you know, taxes).

3️⃣ Reverse engineering into a Profit Optimised Business Model to achieve THAT.

4️⃣ Enjoying the journey and being okay with it taking more than 1 year to get there.

In today's podcast episode, I'm doing a deep dive on why you need to stop chasing an arbitrary revenue goal and start thinking about what would sustain the life you want, drown out the silly unrealistic expectations and get clear on your profit number.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/192

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We Had a $40k Lazy Launch of Our Podcast Course By Doing This ONE Thing

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 03 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

The secret to making $40k with our lazy course launch? Simply, this:

A content plan focused on avoiding the "sea of same" 🐟🐟🐟 by continuing to create "commodity content" ❌, and instead sharing our unique perspective.

The definition of "commoditised" is: "to render (a good or service) widely available and interchangeable with one provided by another company". Information is a commodity. Tips can be Googled. And if you're ONLY sharing content and tips, you're just another brand online. You're the DEFINITION of a commodity - and THAT means you are replaceable.

To stand out as an authority - it's true, you need to author content (literally, the "author" in authority). EVERYONE tells you this. But! The nuance is THIS: to stand out, you need to colour the content that you share with your unique perspective. True thought leadership means, quite literally, LEADING the thought in your industry.

And when you lead the thought rather than sharing the same "how to" content, you give people a reason to follow YOU specifically.

You're not interchangeable or replaceable because you're the only one sharing that perspective.

In today's podcast episode, we will share with you how we practically did this in the lead up to our podcast course launch to stand out and SELL out.

The process we followed:

👉🏻 Step #1: Choose 3-5 content pillars
👉🏻 Step #2: Share consistent content aligned with those content pillars
👉🏻 Step #3: Colour the content with your unique perspective

Here's how we did it in our launch:

✔ Our Offer: Launch Your Wildly Successful Podcast
✔ Aligned Content Pillar for this Offer: Content Creation
✔ Unique Perspective on Content Creation

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/165

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How to Get S&*% Done (Even If You’re Busy, Overwhelmed and Over It)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 30 May 2022 19:00:00 GMT

One thing I know for sure? That we’re all busy. Overwhelmed. Madly trying to maintain a business, often raise children, juggle a social life, fit in self care, work on our personal development, post on social, build our digital empire.. and, phew. It feels exhausting just talking about.

I’m no different. And yet, in the past month? I have onboarded two full time staff members in my business, onboarded 10 new clients, created 13 podcast episodes, created at least two social posts a week, run a business.. oh, and parented a needy toddler, given birth to a new baby girl, pumped breast milk every three hours around the clock, tended to a newborn throughout the night.. OH, and also moved out of our home, facilitated a new house build and signed a contract with our builder, oversaw the demolition of the house, found a new rental in an impossible market AND moved into a new home.

And, the clincher? I. Don’t. Feel. Overwhelmed.

I. Still. Got. Sh^#. Done.

And despite everyone who has watched the past couple of months unfold for me asking “ARE YOU GOING TO BE OKAY?”, I have been able to hand on heart respond.. I will! And, I am!

“BUT HOOOOOW?”, as my two year old would say.

Well, let me break down for you how I manage to get a LOT of sh$% done without it truly overwhelming me.. and maybe, how you can, too.

1. Do Things You Love
2. Prepare
3. Clear Focus Time in Your Diary
4. Prioritise
5. Be Where You Are
6. Mind Your Mind

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/148

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"I Want A $100k Launch," She Said. "Can I do it?"

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 19:00:00 GMT

"I want a $100k launch," she said. "Can I do it?"

My answer was simple, and it's the same answer I give to EVERYONE I work with:

YES, you can.

BUT you can't focus on the 100k to get there.

Instead, you need to reverse engineer that dollar figure into KPIs - meaning, how much traffic do I need to reach that goal?

And then do whatever it takes to hit that KPI.

So often we WANT an outcome, and yet we either don't:

1) Know the metric we need to hit to take us there; or
2) REALLY commit to doing the work required to get to that metric once we know it.

In today's podcast episode, I am breaking down how to reverse engineer into your first or your next $100k launch from a numbers perspective, and then the commitment mindset required to take you there.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Standard Conversion Rate;
✔️ A Traffic KPI;
✔️ A Traffic Plan;
✔️ A Rock Solid Commitment to Reach That Metric;
✔️ The Ability to Objectively Assess the Result;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/190

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Why a $400k Sales Month Broke My Business, My Brain and My Bank Account

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Next up in our Throwback Thursday session, we revisit Why a $400k Sales Month Broke My Business, My Brain and My Bank Account!

We’re gonna kick this one off with the big, fat elephant in the room. I mean, title.

Namely, “WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU MADE $400K IN A SINGLE LAUNCH?!”

Well, dingbat, it means I made a $400k... ish... launch.

In December 2020, I made $400k-ish (actually, it landed at $370k or so, and it certainly wasn’t “cash collected”, but it sounds sexy, right?) in the “foundation” launch of my flagship group coaching program, Launchpad.

Was I pumped? YEAH.

For about two seconds.

…Until I realised that completely blasting my projected $100k goal out of the water by 4 X-ing meant that I would be spending the whole of my Christmas break and the two weeks in January before it opened MADLY working my tail off, hiring multiple staff members to help me manage the back end and preparing the program that I truly felt (and still feel) is my life’s work to the standard I expect (aka – very very very high).

That launch BROKE me.

My brain. My business. My bank account.

And only now am I starting to see the (very bright) light.

So, in this throwback episode, with a little distance between the biggest up-levelling I’ve ever moved through in my business and the (honest) burn out that ensued, I want to break down a few mistakes, lessons, epiphanies and changes I’ve made, learned, had and experienced over the past few months.

✔ Champagne problems AKA new levels, new devils
✔ Hitting my upper limit
✔ Finding my big girl pants

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/110a

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Quick Win Ideas to Generate an Extra $10k+ FAST

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 May 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Want a quick $10k cash injection into your digital product business? Stuck on how to make it happen without a big, fancy launch? I hear you.

Sometimes, it can be hard to see the forest for the trees and objectively see the potential for more income sitting right in front of you! So, here are 13 lucky ideas for additional income to the tune of a few thousand dollars 💸 There’s nothing unlucky about these! 🐈‍⬛

1. Create a Paid to Grow Offer
2. Add an Order Bump to Your Existing Offer
3. Add an Upsell to Your Existing Offer
4. Run a Flash Sale
5. Offer 1:1
6. Do an Extended Payment Plan Promotion
7. Do an Australian Dollars Promotion
8. DM Five Warm Prospects
9. Send Physical Cards or Thank You Gifts to Previous Prospects
10. Send an Email With an Offer
11. Make an Offer to Your Existing Students
12. Implement a Referral Strategy
13. Implement a Renewal Strategy

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/146

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How to Build Your Audience From Scratch

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 03 Aug 2020 20:00:00 GMT

"You need to build an audience of people to sell to!" - says every marketer, ever.

"BUT HOW?!", I hear you cry.

Building your audience - especially when you are just starting out - can feel overwhelming, frustratingly slow, and plain difficult to do.

Whether you're just starting out or you're looking to build a larger audience, it's useful to remember that EVERYONE starts from scratch.

You. Me. Gary Vee. Joe Rogan.

EVERYONE.

We all started with zero followers, zero email list, and zero customers and clients.

The most important thing is that you START.

In today's podcast episode, we are covering three ways to build your audience - whether you're starting from scratch, or you're ready to take your audience growth to the next level.

So, let's dive in eh?

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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What is a Traffic and Visibility Plan and Why Do I Need One?

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

To sell a course, the right people need to see your offer. Period.

Without eyeballs, there aren’t sales.

Luckily, the process of GETTING eyeballs isn’t confined to a life spent slaving away on social media trying to build an audience.

Because at the end of the day? Audience and leads are actually two very different things.

Audience: A group of people to whom you deliver free content and thought leadership to.

Leads: A group of people who express interest in your offer.

An audience can help you generate leads, no doubt. But do you need a BIG audience to get the leads you need to sell your course? NUP.

In today’s podcast episode, we walk through how to structure a traffic and visibility plan to generate the number of leads you need to fill your course funnel.. with or without a big audience to start out with.

Here’s how to structure a plan of attack, to generate leads to sell your course, how it DIFFERS from audience.. and how it all works together;

1️⃣ Choose Your Selling System

2️⃣ Do the Math

3️⃣ Create Your Traffic and Visibility Plan

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/153

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How Cat Doubled Her Best Launch Results with THIS Strategy

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Would you like to know what strategy Cat Skreiner used to double her best launch results?

Cat Skreiner was already a successful course creator when she joined Launchpad in 2022, and had launched her flagship course multiple times before joining us. Cat explains the strategy she used to double her best launch results within months of starting Launchpad.

Cat is an energetic business strategist and Human Design guide who works with heart-centred leaders and entrepreneurs seeking to embody their unique energetic design to achieve more ease, flow and abundance in their personal and professional lives. She has fused her 14+ years in digital marketing with Human Design to help her clients catapult their business success and drive impact in their business through the integration and embodiment of their unique energetic gifts. Cat shows her clients how exactly to create a more intentional business, one that is aligned with their design and that allows them to share your greatness with the world in a way that feels easy, fun and abundant.

In today's podcast, we break down exactly what strategy she used!

Episode Summary:

[2:50] Cat's Career Pivot
[8:05] Hindsight is a Beautiful Thing
[14:35] The Beginnings of Cat's Human Design Journey
[18:55] Refining Cat's Signature Course
[26:25] How Launching Before and After Launchpad Differed
[31:34] Cat Explains Her Biggest Takeaways From Launching
[38:00] The Importance of Purpose
[42:29] Why Forcing Yourself To Do Something That Feels Wrong Won't Work
[51:40] Why Cat Found The Done-For-You Aspect of Launchpad Simplified Everything For Her

More About Our Guest, Cat Skreiner:
Follow Cat on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cat.skreiner/
Website: https://www.catskreiner.com/

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/154

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The “Basic” Marketing Advice You Need to Stop Following RIGHT NOW

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Let me give it to you straight.

Last year was a doozy in the online marketing world, and quite simply?

Things got harder.

Like, WAY harder.

Times have changed.

The world has changed.

And no longer can we rely on the same old marketing rhetoric and “basic bitch” tips and strategies being peddled all over Instagram to build profitable, sustainable businesses for the long term with impact.

So the question is — will you level up, and by doing so become one of the few businesses WILLING to stand out?

Or, will you keep doing what you’ve always done? If you’re a service provider, coach, creative, course creator - or anyone that does business on the Internet - the truth is that if you want to survive?

YOU NEED to get more sophisticated and level up the way you think about marketing your business.

In this episode, we cover the five marketing mistakes you need to stop making RIGHT now to get more sophisticated with your marketing.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/137

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My Launch Flopped - Now What?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 09 May 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Worried about launching a digital product and hearing crickets? 🦗 Or perhaps you have launched in the past, and despite all of your hard work the outcome fell well below your expectations? The fear of launching-and-flopping is real, and it often holds us back from starting, or results in us ‘giving up’ far too soon.

In today’s podcast episode, we’re answering the question — “My launch flopped — now what?” head on. Let’s do this.

We will answer the following questions below:

✔️ Was The Launch ACTUALLY A Flop, Or Were My Expectations Misaligned?
✔️ Did The Launch Convert?
✔️ Did I Have Enough Traffic?
✔️ Was My Mindset Right?

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/145

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🚨 SOS! How to Avoid Leads and Social Media Followers That Don't Buy From You!

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Want sales?

You need leads first. But, you already know that, right?

So, you’re madly posting x3 times a week on Instagram, recording weekly podcasts and growing an email list of subscribers you desperately hope will one day buy.

Little by little, your audience grows.

Yay!

But then, the next hurdle — MY LEADS AREN’T BUYING!

Ahhh, yes.

It’s a common conundrum.

Like the course creator who spends $3,000 to build their list ahead of a launch —

only to roll out a big, flashy launch and hear crickets chirping in their bank account (and not a SINGLE ‘cha-ching’).

Or the service provider that busts their gut creating Reels —

only to have one FINALLY go viral and give them 1000 new followers, and not a SINGLE one enquiry for their signature design service.

Or the coach who spends seven hours on discovery calls trying to convert new leads —

only to have ONE convert into a new client for their upcoming group coaching program.

All three KNOW the importance of leads.. but they’re missing ONE critical distinction:

The difference between a LEAD.. and a QUALIFIED lead.

And TRUST ME, if you want a profitable, sustainable business with a steady stream of dreamies buying your offer/s? You need a process for distinguishing the FORMER from the LATTER quickly.

That's EXACTLY what we are diving DEEP into in today's episode of the podcast!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/139

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Lifestyle Design: How I Am Intentionally Designing My Life for the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 24 Apr 2023 19:00:00 GMT

"Lifestyle Design" is an interesting concept.

Very practically, it refers to intentionally designing how you want to live your days, and designing your life FOR that.

But, how do you ACTUALLY do it?

The truth is, it's NOT an easy path.

It requires you to get really honest with yourself, to make some hard decisions and sacrifices in the pursuit of the thing you most want... and then to do the work required to make it happen.

"Lifestyle design' requires a conscious -- and sometimes uncomfortable -- series of decisions and actions, and I do think that's why many of us continue on autopilot and maintain the status quo.

In today's podcast episode, I am walking you through some very practical steps that I am taking to get more intentional about lifestyle design and how you can implement them, too!

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ What Are You Optimising For?;
✔️ Define Your Perfect Average Week;
✔️ Project Plan;
✔️ Define Done;
✔️ Start Now;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/195

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❣️ Business Diagnostic: 76 Questions to Diagnose the Health of Your Course Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 19:00:00 GMT

It’s true what they say: What got you here, won’t get you there.

And, if you're a course creator that has already enjoyed that first sweet taste of success, it's NOT going to be the same “hustle to the top”, “doing allll of the things” mentality that is going to catapult you from where you are into a business that feels as good as it looks, supports the LIFE you want to lead, enjoys high profit margins and doesn't, on any level, burn you out.

In today's podcast episode, we're sharing a few key parts of the proprietary business diagnostic to allow you to self-assess the health of your online course business, and to discover the obstacles you need to focus on to get them from where you are, to where you want to be.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Endgame;
✔️ Profit;
✔️ Time;
✔️ Delivery;
✔️ Marketing;
✔️ Finances;
✔️ Projections;
✔️ Metrics;
✔️ Project Management;
✔️ Workflow;
✔️ Accounting;
✔️ Planning;
✔️ Lean Team;
✔️ Tools;
✔️ Processes;
✔️ And MORE!

🚨 Are you an established course creator keen to get your hands on the FULL 76-point diagnostic? DM me over at @the.course.cartel on Instagram with the word "CEO", and I'll gift it you for free!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/191

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Why Organic Content is More Important Than EVER in 2022 With Laura Higgins, Lala Social Club

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 14 Mar 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Newsflash! Facebook ad costs are rising. Online marketing is getting more complicated and more convoluted with every algorithm change and Google/IOS update. And yet, the more things changes.. the more, it seems, they stay the same.

In today's podcast episode, I talk to Laura Higgins at Lala Social Club all about why organic content in 2022 is more important than ever, and how to make it work for you -- even if you're strapped for time, have no idea where to start and the idea of spending 5+ hours on the content hamster wheel makes you want to poke your eye out.

Laura Higgins, founder of Lala Social Club and My Marketing Playbook, is an Australia-based online marketing expert. Her online marketing know-how spans many industries – finance, hospitality, beauty, construction, you name it. Her witty, dynamic and humorous communication style makes her an engaging presenter and podcast guest. Host of My Business Playbook podcast and creator of the online marketing course "My Marketing Playbook," Laura is on a mission to uncomplicate marketing for creative women in business.

Episode Summary:

[4.40] How to Build an Organic Content Strategy for Service Providers.
[9.05] How to Attract Your Dream Clients by Narrowing Your Niche.
[18.50] Laura’s #1 Marketing Strategy.
[24.00] Tips to Overcoming Perfectionism & Creating Awesome Content.
[28.52] How to Build A System That Boosts Your Own Creative Process.
[35.23] 4 Key Categories for Effective Content Pieces.
[39.40] What an Offer Is & How to Create an Irresistible One.
[46.20] Laura’s Hacks For More Efficient Ads Management.

FOLLOW OUR GUEST, LAURA HIGGINS:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lalasocialclub.co/
Free ebook: 17 Creative Content Ideas to Grow Your Instagram and Land New Clients https://mymarketingplaybook.com/creative-content
Join the waitlist for Laura's 6-week marketing course for creative service providers: http://mymarketingplaybook.com/waitlist

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The Best Way to Sell Your Online Course

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 06:00:00 GMT

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How to Get PAID to Grow More Leads and Sales Than You Can Poke a Stick At!

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

If you’re a service provider, coach, expert or course creator who needs a simple, effective system for effortlessly ascending your social media followers, email subscribers and audience into your offers, and finally generate the income and impact in your business that you desire and DESERVE to be making — this episode is for you.

We walk you through the same strategy we’re now using within our own business to generate more leads than we can poke a stick at.

First, you'll craft a no fuss, "TAKE MY MONEY" digital product offer.

Next, you'll build a simple sales funnel with all of the steps, pages and assets.

Finally, you'll execute on a no fuss, high impact launch plan to both get a quick cash injection from your product and to effortlessly funnel your new buyers into perfect fit students and clients for your higher priced offer/s.

Intrigued? Listen in, where we break down the full process step-by-step.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/140

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The Passive Income Lie

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 18:00:00 GMT

"I want to create an online course because I want passive income".

Have you heard that?

Or, have you heard the online gurus telling that this is the ultimate end game on an online course?

Because, I have.

Our group coaching program, Launchpad, teaches people how to create, launch and scale an online course - or improve and scale one they already have. It's a 12 month, high level group coaching program, and because we work closely with our clients we accept those we think we can help.

And so, we have acceptance criteria that we assess our applications against.

There are criteria that makes someone a 'hell yes!', criteria that mean we will sometimes accept someone (for example, if they don't meet ALL of the criteria but we see potential in them), and then, some criteria that are a "hell no".

Anyone that mentions "passive income" or "sipping pina coladas on the beach"? Hard "hell to to no".

And honestly? If that's you - if you want passive income and to sip pina coladas on the beach - I recommend getting into crypto on a bull cycle and staying the HELL away from online courses.

Because, here's the thing.

If you think you can make money in your sleep without doing a drop of work, courses aren't for you.

And any guru willing to take your money by telling you otherwise?

Is selling you a pipe dream.

It's ain't ALL bad news, though, because there are many VERY appealing upsides to online courses as a business model, and this podcast is dedicated to separating the fact from the fiction.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How Lexie Beat Her Mindset Gremlins to Make $10k in Her First Online Course Launch

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 07 Mar 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Wondering what a first time course launch looks like -- the good, the bad and the nerve-wracking? In today's podcast episode, Lexie breaks down her very first webinar launch inside of our Launchpad program. She had been thinking about creating a digital course for two years, but had put it off because it felt like Mount Everest 🏔 In her time in Launchpad, she has validated her flagship course, Confident and Clear, and has had a five figure launch helping other women suffering with acne.

Lexie is a Naturopath who supports women suffering with acne to clear their skin naturally, even when they feel like they've tried everything! She empowers her clients to get informed about their hormones, gut health & skin so that they can create change, get glowing skin & feel a million bucks in the process.

Episode Summary:

[4.28 min] Why Lexie started with low cost digital products.
[6.35 min] What prompted Lexie to finally create her course.
[11 mins] How Lexie decided on her online course topic.
[13.19] Lexie's four part framework for her course.
[17.44 min] How to separate your personal self worth from your launch results.
[21 mins] Lexie's experience with validating her course and the mindset struggles that went with it.
[28 mins] The challenges Lexie faced creating her course.
[29.45 mins] The FUN Lexie had in her webinar launch.
[34.05 mins] Why launching is an energy game.
[36.15 mins] Lexie's launch results.
[40mins] Lexie's wins and lessons from her first launch, and the tips and tricks she would give to anyone else thinking about launching an online course.

More About Our Guest, Lexie McPhee:

Follow Lexie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clearskin.withlexie/
Download Lexie's FREE QUIZ: What’s Causing Your Acne? www.lexiemcpheecourses.com.au/fom1z15x

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How Kura Grew Her List By 6,000 In Less That Three Months With a Virtual Conference

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 00:00:00 GMT

"Grow your email list" - they say. Which is FINE, until you're trying to cobble together lead magnets, landing pages and an ads budget to do exactly that, only to find that your list grows by a couple of new subscribers a days (if you're lucky).

If you have an online business, you already know that growing an email list is one of the MOST encouraged revenue-generating activities for your business. But if you're listening to this episode, you likely ALSO know that it ain't exactly a walk in the park.

So... what if I told you that you could grow your email list by 6,000 people in LESS than three months.. without a big ad budget or a single lead magnet?

Because, you can.

At least, Kura did!

Want to follow Kura, our guest on this episode? Here are her links!
Follow The Cool Career on Instagram: @thecoolcareer
Catch up on the latest Careers Info, virtual events or book The Cool Career at your school: www.thecoolcareer.com
Register your interest for CAREERCON 2021: Click Here

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Six “Real Talk” Reasons I Stopped Posting on Social Media 👻

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Do you KNOW you should be showing up on social media, but struggle to do it consistently? Several times over the past 18 months, that is the EXACT situation that I have found myself in.

I know the Instagram rhetoric is to show up, be visible, blah blah.. but honestly? Sometimes it feels hard and heavy, and I think it’s okay to acknowledge that.

In today’s podcast episode, I cover the six reasons that I have stopped posting on social media for fairly long stints multiple times recently. Here’s what we cover:

✔️ Content creation fatigue due to an increased focus on curriculum creation
✔️ Being stuck in branding limbo
✔️ Suffering from perfection paralysis
✔️ I didn't like how I looked
✔️ I was tired of the Instagram echo chamber
✔️ After four years of "being consistent", I'd earned myself a hall pass

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/142

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Are You Building a Business for Life?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 06 Mar 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Are you building a business to support the LIFE you want?

If not, why not?

There's no use chasing an arbitrary $1 million in revenue if you aren't CLEAR on why you want that amount, or exactly what it will take to get there.

In today's podcast episode, we're sharing three things to consider when making the decision to intentionally design a business to support a LIFE that you love.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Setting a Personal Profit Goal;
✔️ The One Thing People Forget When Setting a Personal Profit Goal;
✔️ How to Build a Business to Support a Specific Profit Goal;
✔️ Different "Impact" Models;
✔️ The Importance of LIKING the Lifestyle Your Business Affords You;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/188

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How to Deliver a Launch That Sells Like Crazy

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Delivering a killer launch — you know, the ones you see online that feel flawlessly executed, that make you DROOL for whatever they’re selling and have you WAITING for them to throw open their doors and offer you their course or program - is both art and science.

In reality?

I liken launches like that to a beautifully serene swan.. gliding effortlessly across a lake, but underneath paddling like mad to bring it all together! The truth is, a great launch takes work, but once you have the system nailed?

You can roll it out again and again, automate to turn into an evergreen funnel, and ultimately use it to fuel the revenue for your online business for a profitable, sustainable online business for the long haul.

In today’s podcast episode, we are covering the third key pillar in a successful, profitable digital education business — a replicable, high converting selling system. Let’s go!

The process for doing this is the same regardless of whether you are live launching, or whether your offer is being sold inside of an evergreen funnel.

Here’s what it looks like:

✔️Priming during Pre-Pre Launch
✔️Registration period during Pre Launch
✔️Launch Event
✔️Cart Open Period

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/152

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How Leanne's First Flagship Online Course Has Helped 50+ Facilitators Get Booked Out

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Newsflash! Trying to "funnel" hack or duct tape random strategies you see other "successful" course creators implementing online is NOT a course creation strategy ;)

Just ask Leanne Hughes, an international facilitator, trusted advisor and speaker who loves helping consultants book out five more workshops, for every workshop they deliver.

In this podcast episode, we discuss how Leanne has helped more than 50+ new facilitators on their journey to get booked out this year through her very first flagship course, including:

Leanne's journey towards course creation, and the speed bumps she hit early on in her journey;
How getting crystal clear on the sellable result of Leanne's course was the catalyst for course sales (and how she did it!);
The process Leanne used to validate her course and intake 8 students to get paid to create it;
The joyful, easeful process Leanne implemented in her first launch to intake 30 new students and crack $30,000 in revenue;
How Leanne uses her facilitation skills to create an engaging, fun "welcome party" for her students (and step-by-step tips to help you do the same);
And more!

Want to follow Leanne, our guest episode? Here are her links!

Go to Leanne's Websites: https://www.leannehughes.com; https://www.bookedoutfacilitator.com/

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/126

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Data v Emotion: How to Reverse Engineer Your Online Course Success with Math

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 22:00:00 GMT

Online course math is simple. But, of course, we’re human and so we lovvvve to overcomplicate it. The quickest way to know if your online course promo was successful is THIS:

Drive at least 100 people to your offer page (200 - 300 is better).
For every 100 eyeballs, aim for 1 - 5 sales.

It's that simple, and that hard! In this episode, we break down how to reverse engineer your online course success with simple math.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/122

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Launching v Evergreen Funnels: What is the Best Way to Sell My Online Course?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 19:00:00 GMT

"What is the best way to sell my online course?" - says every aspiring course creator, ever.

I've tried live launches, evergreen sales funnels, and everything in between, and I have a strong opinion.

Want to know which method I recommend? Let's dive in!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How Alyce Sold Out Her Beta Copywriting Course in 24 Hours - Without Webinars, Launching or Funnels

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Wondering how you can get PAID to create your online course, without all of the "stuff" that comes along with a big, complicated live launch? That's exactly what our Launchpad client, Alyce, did to validate her copywriting course Bossy. Copy College (and banked $10k in the process!). Even better, she did it all in less than 24 hours - not a bad day at the office!

In today's podcast episode, we chat to Alyce - who also happens to be the Director + Head Writer of Bossy. Copywriting - about her online course creation journey so far and a few gems around her "superpower", which is writing cheeky, fun, and personality soaked copy (a skill that has served her well in her new focus as a course creator!).

If you're a creative entrepreneur thinking about a digital course to serve clients that aren't "quite" right for your done for you services yet, you will be inspired by Alyce's journey to date.. with much, more still to come for her!

Here are a few things we cover:

How creating an online course is the BEST way for a service provider to pull out their unique methodology and framework (even if they're not yet clear on it themselves!:
How Alyce sold out the Foundation Round of her course and banked $11 in the process in less than 24 hours;
The process Alyce uses to write clever, converting content (you can apply this to ANYTHING you need to write in your business);
The mindset challenges Alyce faced along the way;
The actual course creation process, and how Alyce approached it;
How Alyce's determines what to invest in inside of her business (and her honest thoughts on the Launchpad program);
And much more!

Want to know more about Alyce and her Copywriting course?

Go to Alyce's Website and grab her guide to writing the perfect About Us page: https://bossycreative.com/
Follow Alyce on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/bossy.copywriting

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/125

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Revealed! A Sneak Peek Into My Typical Work Week

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Revealed! A sneak peek into what day-to-day life looks like as a business owner, mother, partner and friend juggling all of the things! For anyone that has ever wished that they had a behind-the-scenes snapshot of what it's REALLY like to run this business, today's podcast episode is for you.

This sneak peek is an insight into how I plan and execute my week.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ The Season I Am IN and Maintenance v Growth Modes;
✔️ Day-To-Day Breakdown;
✔️ Managing Faults;
✔️ Health and Happiness;
✔️ And MORE!

As mentioned, here is the link to check out the Oura Ring: the most accurate sleep and activity tracker.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/187

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Successful Online Course Creators Have These FIVE Things In Common

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 12 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

First up in our walk down memory lane, we revisit for Throwback Thursday what FIVE things Successful Online Course Creators Have in Common!

❌ Unpopular opinion: Not EVERYONE is cut out to be a course creator (despite what the online gurus might tell you).

In my experience, there are a number of attributes that define a successful online course creator.

In this episode, we break down FIVE top attributes successful course creators share.

✔ Successful Online Course Creators do the work now, reap the rewards later
✔ Successful Online Course Creators enjoy marketing
✔ Successful Online Course Creators don’t have Shiny Object Syndrome
✔ Successful Online Course Creators live by the motto “Always Be Optimising”
✔ The actions of successful Online Course Creators are in alignment with their dreams

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/123a

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Three Years in Business [+ FREE PRIVATE TRAINING INVITE]

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Nov 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Happy birthday to me!

Happy birthday to Stevie Says Social!

Happy birthday to me!

A big three years old today.

Out of the toddler years. Standing on my own two feet. And finding my way in the (big, bad, amazing) online marketing world. And, what a wild ride it's been.

This year in particular brought a unique set of challenges as I juggled motherhood and business for the first time, and navigated a change of direction as my business, expertise and goals matured.

In today's podcast episode, I'm reflecting on the past three years and looking forward to the future. Come along for the ride!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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From 0 to 300,000 Podcast Downloads in Two Years

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 12 May 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Two years.

Launching at #2 in the Charts.

300,000 podcast downloads.

250 five star reviews. 5 one star reviews (gotta be honest, right!).

92 episodes.

One extended break.

Three seasons.

And #6 in the all time best selling Marketing podcasts list.

In this episode, I break down how I built my podcast from scratch - and, if you’re thinking about starting a podcast, how you can do it too!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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[Bonus] What Is Success Anyway: Chatting Success with Kate Toon on the Kate Toon Podcast

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 20:00:00 GMT

In this bonus episode, I am chatting to Kate Toon on her podcast, The Kate Toon Podcast, all about success.

Want to launch a wildly successful podcast? Join my podcasting course here.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Retargeting: The Secret to Facebook Ads Success

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Sep 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Let me give it to you straight: Retargeting is the secret to Facebook Ads success. Wondering what on earth I’m talking about? Let me clarify for you. Ever jumped online and ogled a pair of shoes on a fave brand’s website, only to be tracked around Facebook and Instagram for days with images of them - until you bought the damn things?

Yeah?

Well, my friend, that is retargeting in action.

And, it’s incredibly powerful.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Show Me the Money! How to Turn Email Subscribers Into Buyers

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 03 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

I bet you've heard some of these things:

“You don’t own your social media platforms!”

“Build a list of email subscribers!”

“You need a lead magnet to grow your list!”

“Email is the highest converting platform for sales!!!”

I have, because it seems that every online marketer out there says them!

And let me say, it IS sage advice, but it begs the question — how on EARTH does one turn a measly email subscriber into a real, paying client, customer or student?!

Like, HOW DOES THAT EVEN HAPPEN, ONLINE MARKETING EXPERT?!

*Silence*

*Crickets chirping*

*Online marketing expert clears throat and exits room with vague excuse*

EVERYONE tells you that you need an email list.

But NO-ONE is talking about the journey from list to raving buyer, because there’s more to it than getting someone to download a free PDF.

And, if you want the REAL uncomfortable truth?!

A simple lead magnet ISN’T enough to turn someone into a customer — at least, by itself.

And THAT’S where the customer journey comes in.. which is exactly what we’re talking about in today’s episode!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/136

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Want to Scale to a Million Dollars? This is Exactly How I Plan to Do It.

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 19 May 2020 21:00:00 GMT

Want to add $10,000 to your revenue? $100,000? Or, maybe even a MILLION?

Good! You should!

Often in business, we’re wary of talking about our big revenue goals.

We. Shouldn’t. Be.

Money is the oxygen of any business, and your revenue is a reflection of your progress.

In today’s podcast episode, I’m sharing how I intend to scale my business to a million dollars..

And how you can too.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Stop Being a Doormat: How to Set Clear Boundaries With Students and Clients

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 02 May 2022 19:00:00 GMT

As a digital course and program creator with hundreds of people in my flagship program, Launchpad, and my digital courses combined, I have learnt a thing or two about the critical importance of setting boundaries over the past four years.

For so long, I was a yes girl.

I accommodated every client request, I ignored my own contract terms and conditions simply because I was asked to (or sometimes, low key threatened), I said “yes” to requests that meant saying “no” to family time, I made exceptions more than rules and - decision by decision - I became more and more frayed at the edges.

Over time, I’ve had a number of mindset shifts that have helped me to not only start to more robustly set and maintain boundaries, but also to realise that doing so DOES NOT make you a bad person. In fact, it serves not only YOU but also your clients to do so because it creates clarity and fairness in all of your dealings.

Here's what we cover:

✔️ You Can Be A Good Person, Without Being a Doormat
✔️ What You Allow, Will Continue
✔️ Setting Clear Boundaries is An Act of Service
✔️ Their Problems Aren’t Your Problems
✔️ A Contract Is a Contract
✔️ You Can’t Control Other People’s Reactions

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/144

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Five Productive Things to Do for Your Business During Self-Isolation

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 30 Mar 2020 06:49:31 GMT

Googling things to do at home during self isolation? Seems you’re not the only one: ‘things to do at home during self isolation’ is one of the most Googled terms right now.

In this episode, I give you five productive tips for spending your time in self isolation to get started with.

Want to kickstart your podcast? Join the free training and learn how to start your own podcast over at www.thecoursecartel.com/podcastkickstart

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Behind The Scenes | 2019 Year in Review

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 18 Nov 2019 15:00:00 GMT

It’s my birthday!

Today marks two years since my business officially opened its doors.

NOT coincidentally, it also happens to be my ACTUALLY birthday, too.

Two years ago, I decided to take the plunge, quit my 9-5 and give this whole business thing a red hot crack. And, intentionally, I gave my notice and selected the 19th of November, 2017 to be my very first day as a free agent.

So, this time of year is always cause for extra celebration.

It’s also a time for reflection.

As we draw towards the end of the year, it’s always a good time to look back on what worked, what didn’t and what we want to take into 2020.

And that's what this episode is all about!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Let’s Talk About Negative Feedback, One Star Podcast Reviews & Burn Out, Shall We?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 27 Apr 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Business can be a big ‘ol bitch sometimes.

Like when you spend all day grinding out 14 hours of work, only to check your phone and see a scathing one star review on your podcast.

Or when you check your emails on a Saturday morning to find a brutal email saying nasty things.

Or when you’re so busy and burnt out that you don’t have time to see your friends, but people you’ve never spoken to are personally offended that you didn’t reply to their DM asking for free advice.

Today, we talk about some of the 'less than rosy' things in business.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Knowing Your Numbers, and the Instagram Engagement Experiment - A Case Study With Clare Wood

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 09 Jul 2019 05:15:19 GMT

Guys! We’re in a fresh, shiny new financial year.

That means that it is the perfect time to start revisiting our goals - business goals, financial goals, social media goals.. you name it.

If you’re all like yeah, yeah, yeah.. but where the hell do I start - this is the podcast episode for you.

Clare Wood is a business coach specialising in service-based businesses.

In this episode, we dive deep into two areas that are very relevant to all business owners - numbers and goal setting at the beginning of the financial year, AND increasing your Instagram engagement. Both numbers related, but in very different areas!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Five Ridiculously Awesome Social Media Ideas From Bali

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 27 Aug 2018 21:20:12 GMT

If you’ve been following along on my Instagram, you’ll know that I’ve just spent two months in paradise aka Bali. In between sunset drinks, margaritas every day and spending weekends at beach clubs - yes, that’s the truth, and yes, I REALLY REALLY now need to stop drinking cocktails, get healthy and get back into a routine - I had quite a lot of time to think.

After having far too much time to think and spending far too much time eating my breakfasts, lunches and dinners in full - and empty - restaurants and cafes from Seminyak to Canggu, I decided to put together a podcast episode on some of the things that the FULL ones are doing well.

Because, frankly? They are nailing it, and the reason that they are doing so really comes back to understanding and leveraging some very basic - but often overlooked social media and marketing concepts.

So, let’s get back to basics and go through five things that I have seen Bali restaurants, bars and cafes really get right - with examples that you can apply within your OWN business!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Lessons and Insights From Three Years of Podcasting with Clarissa Rayward, The Happy Family Lawyer

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 21 Oct 2019 15:00:00 GMT

When I found out that my friend, Clarissa Rayward aka "The Happy Family Lawyer", was coming up to her third anniversary of podcasting, I knew I needed to have her on the poddy to talk about the impact that picking up a microphone has had on her business and her life.

As a super busy family lawyer, wife, mum, author, blogger, speaker, membership site owner, course creator and more (phew!), I knew that podcasting would be a time-consuming addition to a very busy schedule.

Her answer, though, didn't surprise me.

Simply? It was YES - podcasting was, and still is, worth it.

But, not for the immediate reasons you may expect.

If you have ever considered starting your own podcast but dismissed it on account of your busy schedule, this episode of the Stevie Says Social podcast is a must listen!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Why a $400k Sales Month Broke My Business, My Brain and My Bank Account

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 09 May 2021 16:00:00 GMT

Oh hey. It's me. Stevie.

I’ve only been dark on social media, podcasts, and inside of your email inbox for the past four and a bit months.. but, HEY!

I’m baaaaack.

Pops up like nothing ever happened

I was going to slide back into your eardrums with a tactical podcast on all things pricing strategy for online course, but, of course, that wouldn’t quite be addressing the BIG, FAT question clogging up my DM inbox of late – namely, “Where the %$#^ have you been, Steeeeevie?” – so let’s kick off that, eh?

A bit of a business, baby, brain, bank account and.. er, (trying to come up with another B-word here but failing), LIFE update – whaddaya think?

Everyone: Crickets

Me: Great! (Crafts catching, click baity headline). Let’s dive on in.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Grow Your Social Media Following with Competitions - A Simple Strategy for Doing it the Right Way

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 07 May 2019 23:15:50 GMT

Want to learn how to grow your social media following with Competitions?

Well, there's a right way to do it, and a wrong way to do it.

In this episode, I give you a simple strategy for rolling out a competition on social media that not only grows your social media following but also gets you real results in your business, too - leads, sales and money in the bank!

I also provide three circumstances in which running such a competition to grow your social media following is smart, including:

When building an initial audience
When combined with a remarketing strategy and
When used as a 'bonus' goal to growing your email list

Enjoy!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Navigating the Daily "Polarity" (Highs and Lows) of Life as a Business Owner

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Polarity is a word that I have used a lot lately.

It accurately depicts most of my days in business and in life.

Life as an online business owner, in my current season of business, requires navigating the mental load of hundreds of humans on a daily basis. Clients, team, prospects... all of it.

And with that comes polarity, which is the subject of today's podcast episode.

Polarity is the term that I now use to define the fluctuating experiences that often all converge into one, on any given day.

One client aces their launch.

One is struggling to see sales.

One is having an incredible experience and singing praises from the rooftop.

Another has defaulted on payment and hasn't replied to several follow-ups.

A team member or contractor is firing on all cylinders, kicking KPI goals and acting beautifully in accordance with the values of the company.

Another is distant, focused on other things.

You deliver a presentation and smash it.

Then, you sit down to prepare a podcast and stare at a blinking cursor for an hour.

You receive a compliment.

You receive a complaint.

They love you.

They don't.

All of it.

Often, in the same day.

As a business owner, I have been reflecting on the impact of the polarity of my days on my OWN mental load, and thought it might be helpful to share my experience with others.

I'm not the expert, but in today's podcast episode I am sharing some of the things I am learning.

✔️ Systematise Tough Decisions
✔️ Separate Business from Self
✔️ Take Action Based on Data, Not Emotion
✔️ Be Clear on What You Want
✔️ Don't Absorb Other's Emotions

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/163

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How to Spring Clean Your Business, Marie Kondo Style.

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 28 May 2019 02:51:24 GMT

You can call me Marie Kondo if you like, because I have just spent the better part of the weekend completely spring cleaning my business.⠀⠀⠀⠀

Last week, I got busy.

And it stressed me out.

But more than that, it stressed me out that I wasn't making life easy for myself. Messy folders, messy inbox, random documents all over my desktop. Just BIZ CLUTTER.

In this episode, I am going to walk you through all of the things I did to spring clean my business.

And, maybe, to inspire you to do the same!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How Should I Price My Online Course? Unpopular Opinion: Do Not Charge Your Worth (Charge x10 Less)

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 16 May 2021 16:00:00 GMT

“How should I price my online course?”

“CHARGE YOUR WORTH”, they say.

Ever heard this?

I have, over and over and over.

It’s problematic in most business situations (to say the least), but ESPECIALLY in the context of online courses.

Let’s break down why ‘charging your worth’ is the WORST possible advice to follow when it comes to setting a price for your online course, and three things you should be considering instead.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Our "Life First" Business Plan For 2023

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

A couple of years ago, I had a profound epiphany that changed my business and my life forever.

At the time, my digital course business was rapidly growing, revenue was skyrocketing. Had more students than ever.

On paper – I had achieved the success that I had thought I so desperately wanted.

I should have felt happy, excited and full of pride.

Here’s how I felt instead:
🚩 Tired, burnt out and over it
🚩 Like an imposter
🚩 Betrayed
🚩 Like a bad mama

I carried guilt around 24/7 and wondered whether I’d created a hamster wheel that I might not ever be able to get off.

I knew something had to change…

One Saturday, I sat down with my own thoughts.

What is the purpose of all of this? What is it that I WANT, at the end of the day?

My Goals:
1. More Profit
2. More Time

The Business Model I Needed to Get There:

A simple business with high profit margins, working 5-hour days with a lean, remote team of 1-5 and a mostly clear calendar.

AKA... A Business With the Endgame of The Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot.

Since that day, I have been hellbent on a different goal.

Getting clarity on my endgame and reverse engineering into a business that achieves it the epiphany that profoundly changed my business and my life.

This is the "Life First" Business Plan we are implementing in 2023.

If YOU are aligned with our desired endgame in business, maybe it's a model you'd like to follow?

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ Traffic Strategies;
✔️ Offers;
✔️ Selling Systems;
✔️ Team;
✔️ Delivery;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/186

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Why Hashtags Aren't The Answer (And What to Focus on Instead)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 16:00:59 GMT

Are hashtags the answer when it comes to your social media strategy?

That is the question we tackle in today's episode.

We cover:

The difference between strategies and tactics;
Why focusing on random tactics like hashtags without having a social media strategy isn't smart;
What hashtags are and how to use them, with a focus on Instagram;
The right way and the wrong way to use hashtags on your posts and stories;
The importance of using hashtags that attract your ideal client and which hashtags will help with this;
When people are searching hashtags;
Branded hashtags and how they can be used;
The need to focus on a full social media strategy, of which hashtags are just a small component.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Create an Epic Lead Magnet in 60 Minutes or Less

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 28 Mar 2022 19:00:00 GMT

You know you should be growing your email list. Maybe you already have a random freebie collecting dust somewhere on your digital shelves. But actually taking it seriously? Well, it feels overwhelming, there's a million other things to do and if you're honest - it currently sits at about #1,031 on your priority list of business to dos.

What if I told you that the RIGHT lead magnet is the gateway to more leads, sales and money in the bank? Because it is, and it doesn't have to be hard. The secret? The RIGHT strategy, and a simple, here's-exactly-how-you-do it template handed to you on a silver platter.

In today’s podcast episode, I’m giving you both, covering the five key steps to creating a profitable lead magnet:

Topic: There is both an art and a science to choosing a topic for your lead magnet that effortlessly ascends perfect fit buyers into your offers. We break down the three things you need and why it’s so important to start with the end in mind.
Topic: The delivery format for your lead magnet matters! We show you how to model your lead magnet to fulfil all five 'must' have requirements for a freebie that sells.
Template: No-one wants to create a lead magnet from scratch! Follow our step-by-step, here's-exactly-what-to-put-where template to create your lead magnet quickly and efficiently (so you can get it out the door and start growing your list without overthinking, second guessing or the dreaded blinking cursor).
Tech: There is a simple funnel required to set up your lead magnet; we walk through the key steps.
Traffic and Tracking: Once your lead magnet is set up, you will need to drive traffic to it and then analyse what’s working and what’s not. We’ll show you how to ensure that you are driving eyeballs with the three key traffic sources, and how to assess your data to troubleshoot if need be.

Want to get your hands on our DONE-FOR-YOU lead magnet template for creating your own lead magnet quickly and efficiently? You can get it for FREE at www.thecoursecartel.com/leadmagnet now!

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10 Instagram Commandments for More Sales in 2022

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 19:00:00 GMT

I was going to call this "How to beat the Instagram algorithm in 2022?", because I knew it would go viral.

Give the people what they want, as they say.

But, here's what I REALLY believe to be true.

If you want to beat the algorithm in 2022, you're doing it wrong.

Seriously. Eff the algorithm.

As business owners and course creators, here's what to do in 2022 on Instagram to sell more stuff.

Because, that's what we're really on Instagram for... right?!

Let's not forget that.

So, here's my 2022 strategy for ditching the algorithm and creating an Instagram strategy that generates sales.

Let's dive in.

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The Ultimate List: Digital Marketing Tools That Have Changed My Business Life

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 16:00:00 GMT

When you work in digital marketing as long as I have, you start to play favourites.

Favourite tools, I mean.

There are certain digital apps and tools that give me love heart eyes.

They just make my life so much easier, and some?

Well, I quite literally couldn’t do business without them.

In this episode of the Stevie Says Social podcast, I break down the digital marketing tools that have changed my business life for the better.

Who doesn’t love a good list of new tools to check out, right?

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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LinkedIn | The LinkedIn Video Strategy that Got Ruby Lee 1.5 million Views on ONE Post

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 19 Jun 2019 05:05:47 GMT

Ahhhhh, LinkedIn.

Let’s face it - it’s one of those platforms that you know there could probably be potential on, but so far?

It’s been all spammy connection request and stale, ‘professional’ posts with zero personality.

YAWN, right?

Well, today’s Stevie Says Social podcast guest and all around girl boss Ruby Lee is proof that it doesn’t have to be that way. In fact, LinkedIn is SO hot right now, and if you AREN’T taking advantage of it? Well, you’re missing out BIG time.

Join the free Social Media Bootcamp at www.steviesayssocial.com/bootcamp

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How Stephanie Made $12k in Her Very First Online Course Launch With a Tiny Email List

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Creating a digital course for travel agents in the middle of a pandemic which left the entire industry on its knees is NOT exactly the 'ideal' circumstances in which to start a business, and yet it is exactly what Steph successfully did in 2021 (and with a tiny audience and email list to boot!)

In today's podcast episode, Steph and I talk about:

The challenges Steph faced attempting to create a digital course in tough industry circumstances and how she shifted her mindset to navigate them skilfully;
The "up front" work involved in being a course creator (hint: it's not all laptops and pina coladas by the pool!);
How Steph knew that her course idea was a winner;
How Steph achieved a stellar conversion rate in her first launch that smashed through standard benchmarks even with a tiny list and small audience;
And more!

Want to follow Steph, our Guest for this Episode? Here are her links!

Join Stephanie's Free Live Training "Steal My Travel Agent Runway Framework + Stand Out In The Digital World"? https://stephaniemyers.academy/masterclass
Sign Up for Stephanies 7 Lead Generation Strategies for Travel Agents: https://www.stephaniemyers.academy/cheatsheet
Listen to Stephanie's Unplug in Paradise: The Podcast: https://plnk.to/unpluginparadise
Follow Stephanie on Instagram: @travel.by.stephanie

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/127

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Building Your Personal Brand Online with Youtube and Live Video with Erin Henry

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 14 May 2019 03:19:15 GMT

Ever thought about building a personal brand online? That's exactly what Erin Henry has done, and in this episode she gives away her top tips for doing the same.

Erin is a Personal Branding Strategist who has built a successful coaching business as a result of her focus on creating regular consistent content on a number of different platforms. She has a Youtube Channel with over 100,000 subscribers, a podcast, and is very active on live video on Instagram.

In this episode, we uncover all of the secrets involved for those wanting to do the same:

How Erin built an audience by creating consistent content long before she turned it into a business;
Why creating content long before you launch can be a huge benefit - it gives you time to suck (!), to experiment with different content topics to find a niche that you love;
Where to start if you are interested in your own Youtube channel (and the importance of just getting STARTED);
Why 'which camera should I buy?' is the worst question to start with;
Not letting perfection get in the way of just getting going;
Why looking at people a few steps ahead is the worst thing you can do;
The importance of consistency;
The one thing that changed EVERYTHING for Erin on Youtube and really supercharged her audience growth and Youtube success;
The power of live streaming for service based businesses and the way that it develops the know, like and trust factor as well as developing your expertise;
The power of the DM as a sales channel;
Voice noting on Instagram;
How to create a lot of content on social media without it being a total time suck;
Which of podcasting, Youtube and Instagram has been the most effective;
Erin's content formula.

Links and Resources

Erin Henry Youtube Channel
Erin Henry Website
The Game Changers podcast
Join the Hashtags Aren’t the Answer social media program

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Run a Successful Social Media Competition

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we cover how to run a social media competition for your business with social media competition expert, Sukina Harrison of Origami Globe.

We will cover the following:

The three best ways to supercharge your social media efforts;
The reasons for running a social media competition;
A step-by-step overview to running a social media competition;
The importance of planning your social media competition in advance;
How long a high-value social media competition should ideally run for;
How to prepare for a competition;
What to do during a competition;
What to do after a competition is closed;
Apps to consider using;
The legalities and rules for running competitions on all of the major platforms;
And much more.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Build a Client Winning Website with Louise Henry, Solopreneur Sidekick

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Have you ever thought about what happens after you’ve got your organic social strategy, Facebook ads and all of the things down pat?

That’s what we cover in today’s episode of the Stevie Says Social website.

In this episode, Louise Henry of Solopreneur Sidekick gives us a simple sales funnel that all service providers can set up and use to start generating those leads and sales on autopilot. Sounds pretty good to me!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Why Social Media Likes Don't Pay the Bills (And What to Focus on Instead)

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 03:38:52 GMT

Social media is one of the most powerful and cost effective marketing platforms currently available to small business.

In the past few years, we’ve personally witnessed countless businesses completely transformed with good socials and a strong content marketing strategy. Brand awareness, leads, sales — it’s all possible.

And yet, there are still so many businesses struggling to make it work for them.

Why?

It comes down to this.

Likes don’t pay the bills.

In today's episode, we'll cover why social media likes don't pay the bills. I'll be giving you three things on what small business should be focusing on instead.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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2021 Year in Review | Five Business and Life Reflections on the Year That Was

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 05:00:00 GMT

I'm not sure 2021 has been the year everyone hoped it would be.

In the wake of the C-Word in 2020, many of us were hoping for a calmer 2021, perhaps a sense of things "getting back to normal". Oh, how NOT normal 2021 has turned out to be.

On a personal note, 2021 has been a year of work.

The set up and scale of my group coaching program Launchpad has been a full time job since its foundation round in December 2021. It hasn't been an 'easy' year, but I'm not sure that the process of creating something great - something you're truly, deeply proud of - ever is.

In some ways, it reminds me of the year prior to the launch of my first flagship social media course, Hashtags Aren't the Answer. Switching business models. Learning to do something from scratch. Doing the up front work to create something leveraged.

There's set up involved in that, and just like in 2018 it consumed much of my attention this year.

And, just like in 2019, at the end tail end of it I've fallen pregnant!

That seems to have been my business journey to date.

A big hallmark business year.. followed by a big hallmark 'motherhood' year.

Business. Then baby. Business. Then baby.

The magical thing is that the way that I have SET my business is up accommodates beautifully the baby part. I couldn't imagine a service based business with a full client load with a little one. Is Launchpad a service business? Yes, but it's leveraged, systemised and streamlined to the hilt. That, I made sure of in 2021.

And that's okay.

As this year - one that felt long and short all at once - draws to a close, I want to reflect on some of the things I have learnt this year. Some of these are related to courses and online business, some moreso life lessons.

Let's go!

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Facebook Newsfeed Changes | How to Adapt Your Facebook Strategy in 2018

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 08 Mar 2018 01:27:00 GMT

In this podcast, I’m covering a presentation I put together for Interactive Minds discussing the recent Facebook newsfeed changes and how to adapt your Facebook strategy.

In the podcast, we cover:

What the 2018 Facebook newsfeed change is;
Why meaningful interactions is now so important;
How to adapt your Facebook strategy in 2018 to continue to get reach on your business page;
Examples of businesses doing well in the wake of these updates;
Why paid advertising is now so important for certain posts;
The importance of diversifying your marketing efforts; and
Two other social media platforms to start considering.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Surprise! I’m Having a Baby

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 15 Jul 2019 16:00:00 GMT

SURPRISE! I’m having a baby!

This is not a drill.

There’s a mini Stevie and Jules on the way in t minus 7 weeks.

Whhhhhat?!

Kept that one on the DL, didn’t I ;) Those who have seen me or spoken to me in the last 7 months would know (the growing basketball on my stomach is kind of hard to miss).

But those who haven’t?

Well, this would be NEW news.

I must say, I’ve never really been one for a big baby announcement.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Five Launch Lessons From My Most Successful Online Course Launch To Date

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 11 Jun 2019 09:10:17 GMT

Wondering what goes on behind the scenes of a successful launch?

The good, the bad and, well - to be honest - the ugly, too?

Of course you do.

Why? Because too often, we see just the highlights reel when it comes to the launch of another persons ‘thing’. Usually, though, here’s so much going on behind the oh-so-perfect scenes.

The latest launch of my Hashtags Aren’t The Answer membership program was no different.

In this episode, I discuss five launch lessons from my most successful launch to date.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Instagram Hashtags | How to Find the Right Hashtags for Your Business in 2018

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 07 May 2018 04:48:18 GMT

Wondering how to find the right Instagram hashtags for your business in 2018?

If so, you’re in the right place.

In this episode, I give you seven tips to ensure that you’re using your Instagram hashtags strategically to attract the right people, grow your business and to reach your marketing and social media goals.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Talk Social to me LIVE Q+A Podcast

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 06:34:34 GMT

A recorded Facebook live version of the Talk Social to Me Podcast.

Episode Summary

In this episode, I answer your burning social media questions. We cover:

What is your website platform? Did you design it yourself? And how do you funnel to it? - Asked by Heidi Begg, Spot Rural.
The best strategies and things to do to drum up interest for a launch? - Andy and Cath, Just Rapt Hampers
Should a business always have a Facebook and Instagram presence? - Martine - Buzzed Ink
Should you start your social media accounts again if change your business significantly? - Patrice, Zurii
Should I send a welcome DM to new followers or is it spammy? - Nicole, Minty Magazine.

Mentioned in this episode:

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Personalise Your Offline Marketing with Jo Eleanor, Calligraphy En Vogue

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 21:16:52 GMT

Jo Eleanor is the creative behind Calligraphy En Vogue, a modern calligraphy service specialising in brand experiences and personalised business stationery who has worked with a number of big brands including Givenchy and Chanel.

In this episode, we discuss ways that she and other small businesses can amplify their business by stepping away from digital marketing and personalising their marketing efforts offline.

We chat about:

Jo's business, her clients and what modern calligraphy is;
Jo’s work with fashion brands and their emphasis on personalisation and brand experiences as a way of differentiating their brand in a competitive premium fashion marketplace;
Examples of brand activations she has done for big brands like Givenchy and what small businesses can learn and adopt in their own business;
How personalising gifts for influencers can encourage user generated content for brands;
Examples of personalised offline marketing;
How Jo used a combination of content marketing, branding and unique PR initiatives to attract her ideal client;
Why writing personalised thank you cards should be a part of your marketing strategy;

Links and Resources::

Calligraphy En Vogue Instagram: http://instagram.com/calligraphyenvogue
Calligraphy En Vogue Website: https://www.calligraphyenvogue.com

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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DIY Video Marketing Tips for Facebook and Instagram with Nicky Felton, Play Creative

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 21 Aug 2018 06:58:08 GMT

In this episode, we dive into DIY video marketing tips for Facebook and Instagram.

Nicky Felton is the co-founder of Play Creative, a storytelling focused video production company. In this episode, we get her insights into EVERYTHING video.

Shownotes

An in-depth rundown of different types of video across Facebook and Instagram; including the Facebook Newsfeed, Facebook Live, Instagram Stories and IGTV;
Our predictions on the future of IGTV;
Some awesome content ideas for producing your own video content;
The power of a short 'About Us' video for social media;
Ways to use your iPhone to create video content, including the slow mo, time lapse and stop motion functions;
A secret Harry Potter-eque trick with the Boomerang app;
Apps to use for DIY'ing your video content, including Go Pro Quik, iMovie and Rippl;
Tools required [and tools you DON'T require].

Links + Resources

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/playcreativenz/

Instagram: @playcreativenz

Website: www.playcreative.co.nz

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Build Your Personal Brand Online With Social Media

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Whether you’ve heard of ‘personal brand’ or not, the truth is that you already have one.

Personal brand simply means your reputation.

How you are perceived in the eyes of others.

What people think and say about you when you’re not around.

And in 2018 it’s not just what people are saying about you when you’re not in the room that matters. It’s what people are saying about you online. Or in some cases, what they’re NOT saying.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Do I Need a Big Audience to Launch an Online Course?

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 09 Nov 2020 19:00:00 GMT

"Do I need a big audience to launch an online course?"

This is hands down the most common question that service providers have been considering swapping clients for courses.

And it's a valid one, especially if you're considering launching an online course with a tiny audience or non-existent email list (I mean, who has time to 'grow an audience' when you have a full roster of clients to contend with?)

Here's my short answer:

Yes, you need PEOPLE to sell your course to.

But, is this the same as having a large, warm, engaged audience of people already on your email list?

No, not necessarily.

Let's dive into what role 'audience' plays in the sales for your online course, and how to approach growth if you are starting with a tiny audience.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Six Common Social Media Mistakes and How to Avoid Making Them

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Social media can be TOUGH.

There’s so much to learn and get right. It can be tough to feel like you’ve really got a handle on things and you’re not making mistakes.

But, don’t worry guys - I've got your back.

In this episode, we cover a few common social media mistakes you need to avoid making plus a few home truths to know too, and I’m here to tell you exactly what they are.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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SEO Basics for Small Business with Karlie Plowman, Technobird

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we are diving into the basics of SEO for small businesses with special guest Karlie Plowman from Technobird.

If you're a small business that's guilty of sticking your head in the sand when it comes to all things SEO and putting it in the too hard basket, I feel ya. I used to be there myself.

It was, quite frankly, all a little bit overwhelming and so I stuck to posting on social and, when it came to digital marketing, leaving it at that.

Now?

It's a different story.

Organic Google search is hands down my biggest traffic source, I derive a couple of leads a day from it, and that's a number which is growing every single day. I LOVE SEO.

And all of this came about by making a conscious effort to put a little time into learning the rope. Now, I'm no guru - that's Karlie - but I have strung enough knowledge together to get me some tangible results and now I just want to know more!

So, this podcast is kinda selfish. It's for me, as well as for you.

And it's a KILLER episode.

Links + Resources

Technobird: https://www.thetechnobird.com.au/

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Become a Digital Nomad and Live in Bali with Alarice Stuart, Brand Babes Studio

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 05 Feb 2019 05:11:47 GMT

Ever wanted to become a digital nomad and travel the world, living in exotic locations like Bali? Well, what's stopping you?

That's the theme of today's podcast episode with Alarice Stuart, serial digital nomad and founder + Creative Director of remote branding studio Brand Babes Studio.

Both she and I have spent time living the digital nomad life in Bali, and today's episode we have a chat about exactly how we did it - and why you should consider it, too!

We only live once, right?

In this episode, we cover everything you need to know about how to become a digital nomad and live in Bali.

We cover:

How Alarice set up a business that would allow her to live and work remotely from anywhere in the world;
The steps involved in setting your business up to take an extended working holiday overseas;
The things that she wishes that she had done differently when preparing to become a digital nomad;
The challenges of digital nomad life - including working with different timezones, adjusting to a new place and getting the motivation to work when there are new surroundings to explore;
and more!

Links + Resources

Alarice has put together a ultimate guide for those hoping to become a digital nomad and live in Bali!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Facebook Ads 101 | Beyond the Boost

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 05:00:08 GMT

Facebook advertising is so hot right now.

EVERYONE is banging on about it.

But WHY? What’s all the fuss about?

Before getting into the nitty-gritty technical stuff, let's break it down and find out how it is that Facebook ads came to be the new holy grail of online marketing.

There’s three contributing factors.

In this episode, we'll be talking about Facebook advertising, what it is, why it's so amazing and a bit of a Facebook Ads for dummies 101.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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A Simple Social Media Sales Funnel That Sells - A Case Study with Tegan Studsor

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 16:15:24 GMT

Want to know how to build a simple social media sales funnel that sells, but unsure where to start?

If so, you're not alone.

In this podcast episode, I speak to Tegan Studsor from Traffic Force and AusQ Training. Tegan is a recent student in the Hashtags Aren't The Answer program, and through the program has gone through the process of lifting her social media game within her businesses.

Anyone who is struggling with their socials will benefit a lot from this episode. In it, we discuss Tegan's challenges with being an 'unsexy' business and wondering how to amplify her online presence, and her frustrations with being stuck in the social media vortex - posting over and over without achieving any real results.

We then discuss, step by step, the actions that Tegan took (with the help of my free Social Media Bootcamp and paid program Hashtags Aren't The Answer) to turn things around and start securing sales from her social media efforts.

These include:

Diving into Facebook ads and starting to test using the 'boost' button - with surprisingly good results (including over 500 shares!);
Doing the little things right, including engaging with followers, replying to comments and more;
Just taking action and getting STARTED;
Setting business objectives and tracking results;
Creating video content;
Creating a simple sales process to nurture leads from social media to a sale;
Creating a lead magnet to build an email list of ideal clients;
Putting together a landing page to capture email addresses;
Learning from what other industries are doing;
And more.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Facebook Ads | Facebook Ad Targeting Changes

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 14 Aug 2018 02:56:23 GMT

As one of the most targeted forms of advertising available anywhere, Facebook ads is at the very top of my list when it comes to paid marketing options - both on and off Facebook.

If you aren’t familiar with Facebook ads, or you would like a bit of a 101 overview, please head back to the Facebook 101 episode, which is a fabulous overview of the Facebook ads platform.

In this episode, we are going to dive specifically into Facebook targeting, and in particular, some Facebook ad targeting changes that have come into effect over the past couple of weeks.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Social Media for Real Estate Agents with Sherrie Storor

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 14 May 2018 19:59:29 GMT

Social media marketing represents an enormous opportunity for real estate agents wanting to build their personal brand and market their listings online.

Unfortunately, a 2015 study by Hubspot shows that although real estate agents posted more on social media than any other industry, the engagement that they received on those posts was the lowest.

Not a great result.

It means that there is enormous scope and opportunity to stand out if you are a real estate agent that knows how to leverage social media in the right away - by helping, adding value and providing interesting, relevant information that your target audience welcomes - rather than simply promoting listings and sales.

In this episode, I interview Sherrie Storor, one of Brisbane's leading real estate agents and now also a real estate coach teaching others in the industry how to build their best lives.

This episode will especially helpful not just to real estate agents, but to anyone working in a service-based industry.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Tips for Event Planning for Small Businesses with Jess Selwood, The Commune Space

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 26 Feb 2019 04:25:29 GMT

Ever considered running an event for your small business but haven't been sure where to start? If so, you're in luck because in this episode we are chatting all about tips for small business event planning with Jess Selwood, one half of event planning business The Commune Space.

With most marketing efforts focused online these day, we forgot that there is still so much opportunity in 'offline' initiatives. Jess and I discuss how to use events in your business as both a marketing and customer experience channel - and why you should be considering hosting one in your business if you HAVEN'T thought about it already.

Main topics covered:

Why should a small business consider holding an event?
Events are a great way to warm up potential leads and to give people an insight into you brand and business - leaving them wanting more!
The importance of human to human connection and the value in getting your current and potential customers into a room together.
The fears and pain points around holding an event - including fear around budget and profit, and the fear that people won’t come! - and how to overcome them.
The importance of setting objectives for your event, including building authentic connections, generating leads and more.
The types of events that a small business can run, and examples of different events and their objectives.
The five steps involved in organising an event for your small business, including the minimum amount of planning time involved.
How to create a killer brand experience for your event.
How to tackle an event budget, and where to invest your budget first.
How to market your event and sell tickets, including Jess’ FOMO strategy to play on urgency and scarcity.

Links and Resources

The Commune Space Five Day 'Party Starter' Challenge

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Write Killer Social Media Captions

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 11 Dec 2018 01:46:29 GMT

Want to know how to write killer social media captions? This is the episode for you!

If you want it done for you though, I'd highly recommend checking out my done for you social media caption templates in the Social Shop.

On this episode, I will talk about what are the essential elements of a killer social media caption, and how can you start nailing them for your own socials.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Use Influencer Marketing to Grow Your Business with Kayla Houlihan, Tribe Skincare

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 14 Mar 2018 05:50:13 GMT

If you have ever wanted to know how to successfully use influencer marketing to help you grow your business, this is the podcast for you!

Kayla Houlihan is the founder of Tribe Skincare, a skincare range especially for sensitive skin that prides itself on being Australian, Vegan, cruelty-free and natural. Their business has been going from strength to strength, thanks in no small part to some very clever social media marketing strategies - most notably, successfully using social media influencers to promote their products.

If you are a product-based and/or e-commerce business wondering how you leverage influencer marketing to grow, you're in luck because Kayla is super transparent about her strategies and exactly what she has done to succeed.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Get Your First 10,000 Followers on Instagram

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 03:31:28 GMT

Wondering how to get your first - or your next - 10,000 followers on Instagram?

If so, you’re not alone.

‘How to get your first 10,000 followers on Instagram’ is one of the most Googled social media search queries out there.

We ALL want the answer.

In this episode, let’s go through how to get your first 10,000 Instagram followers – or at least, how I did it and some tips and tricks to help you get there too.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Content Marketing | Why No-One Cares About Your Business (and What to Do About It)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 05 Nov 2018 19:14:41 GMT

Content Marketing done well makes your business to be an attraction business, with a steady pipeline of customers and clients clamouring to work with you.

In this episode, we go through what good content marketing is, why it rocks and how to incorporate it regardless of the type of business you have.

Today's Sponsor

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Create and Sell An Online Course (With Zero Tech Overwhelm) | Part I

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 01:51:51 GMT

Truthbomb: Creating and selling an online course is hands down the very best thing I have EVER done in my business.

Like, ever.

My only regret?

That I didn’t do it sooner.

There’s one thing that I know for DAMN sure, though: having knowledge around the right tools, launch strategies, course creation and tech to use when I was FIRST starting out would have saved me a bucketload of time, sleep and late nights.

Why? Because I went in BLIND.

When it came to creating an online course, I quite literally knew nothing when I first embarked on this grand little adventure.

And - until I stumbled across the right tools and solutions (and thank GOD for that) and advice - I almost threw in the towel and gave up on the whole damn thing, oh, about fifty thousand times.

In this episode, I want to break down for you step-by-step exactly what I did to create and sell my OWN online course, Hashtags Aren’t The Answer.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Simple, Sexy Social Media Analytics | Five Steps to Track and Measure Your Social Media Success

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 11:27:04 GMT

Allergic to social media analytics?

I feel you - numbers are NOT my jam either.

I hate ‘em.

BUT, here’s the thing.

When it comes to success on social media, they are critical.

Why? Because if you don’t know where you’re going, how on earth are you ever going to get there?

In this episode, I am going to show you how to track your social media analytics the SMART way, and to enjoy the process too.

Now, to make life incredibly easy for you, I have also just launched a new product in the Social Shop that will help you as you go through this training.

I have put together some seriously good looking social media analytics tracking spreadsheets for simply and easily recording your analytics.

Not only that, when you update these spreadsheets they AUTOMATICALLY create beautiful visual graphs to track your progress.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Hack Your Own PR with Odette Barry, Odette and Co

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 03 Jun 2019 16:00:03 GMT

Want to learn how to hack your own PR?

You should.

There are huge opportunities for small businesses willing to put in the work to hack their own PR and gain media coverage for their business.

Whether you're seeking to lift your authority, showcase your expertise, build your brand awareness or generate solid leads and/or business, there are PR opportunities ready and waiting for you.

In today's Stevie Says Social podcast episode, I chat to Odette Barry from Odette and Co all about how to Hack Your Own PR.

Here's a few things we cover, along with some truthbombs from Odette:

👉 Is the media release dead? What the role of a media release is in 2019, and the difference between the 'spray and pray approach' and carefully curating thoughtful press releases;
👉PR is all about relationships and playing the long game.
👉Find people that you can connect to, and create mutually beneficial relationships. Because it should be about a value exchange with the media outlets you want to work with. You're giving them something they want that is going to serve their audiences, and in exchange they are giving you (attention of) their listeners.
👉How to ask for a pitch, and the importance of being personal and showing your appreciation to someone.
👉 and a whole lot more...

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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🧘‍♀️ Engineering Alignment: Building an Offer That Sparks Joy, Lights You Up and Brings Happy to Your Day

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Building a successful online course business in 2024 requires an irresistible, hell-yes core offer.

[Read the full blog post here].

Here’s the kicker, though.

Whilst making sure your offer is irresistible to the person you’re selling it to is non-negotiable (something we covered in detail in last week’s piece, and this one too), it’s only step one.

Building an offer that sells is one thing.

Building one that lights you up, fulfills you, gives you more of what you want and allows you to reach your goals so you can run it for the long term without burning out?

Well, that’s entirely another.

Here’s one thing my seven years in online business has taught me:

Success isn’t success if it doesn’t give more of what you want.

This is a Naval Ravikant quote, and I have it pinned everywhere:

On my laptop screensaver.

My phone.

My desk.

Everywhere.

It serves as a reminder for me of what “success” is and what it isn’t.

In an online world that has for so many years espoused financial and “numbers” based success as the only true indicator of it, it’s important to remember.

For so long, “success” and “alignment” haven’t co-existed, nor have they been together “considered”.

On the one side have been the people chasing “success” at any cost.

And on the other, those seeking “alignment”.

But it’s only recently that anyone has considered the two to be mutually exclusive.

Thankfully, the tides are changing.

When I started talking about wild alignment, and building a lifestyle business, just TWELVE MONTHS AGO – it was new, and novel.

Today, there’s lots of talk of freedom-based business, and balance, and building a business that complements your life without scaling to the moon.

In today’s piece, I want to share with you what I feel is the critical “foundation” for achieving this in practice.

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Building a Bucketlist Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:00:00 GMT

In 2007, I spent six weeks in a hostel in the middle of Guatemala just “because”.

Truly, I’d never felt so free.

The two years prior had been spent working like a donkey, with good people but in a field I hated.

The endgame? Admission to the Supreme Course of Queensland as a lawyer.

It was an accolade I spent 7 years working towards..

Only to quit, 6-weeks to the day later.

And so, there I found myself in a computer shop in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, on a steaming April afternoon checking my emails when my brothers friend messaged us on Facebook.

“Wanna come visit?” – he wrote, “I’m just down the road in Guatemala!”

We looked at each other.

Of course we would. It wasn’t even a QUESTION.

We were free. The world was our oyster. And we could do anything, be anyone, go anywhere!

And so it came to be that I ended up spending the best, most carefree, most FUN 6-weeks of my life living out of a backpack in a dingy hostel dorm room in Antigua.

Acutely aware that I had opted out of life for a little minute, and feeling grateful as heck for it.

Five years later, I started my online business chasing that kind of freedom again.

And on the surface, the promise of it all felt.. intoxicating.

Time freedom – to work when I wanted!

Location freedom – to go back to Central America, or London, or ANYWHERE BUT HERE!

Financial freedom – to make more than a doctors wages working on the goddamn INTERNET!

I wanted it.

The sense of adventure.

The possibility.

The wonder that came from not knowing what would come next.

The Tuesday afternoons spent outside (and not in an air-conditioned cubicle)

ALL OF IT.

🍊 Rinse and Repeat has just been added to Lifestyle Business School! This is the ultimate collection of every live launch and promotion under the sun. Join now for $149/m.

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You Can't Be a NY Times Bestselling Author with 17k Followers.. OR CAN YOU?!

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 16:00:00 GMT

🍑 Rinse and Repeat has just been added to Lifestyle Business School! This is the ultimate collection of every live launch and promotion under the sun. Join now for $149/m.

I’ve had 17,400 Instagram followers for YEARS now.

Sure, it tracks up a bit.

Down a bit.

But overall, it HOVERS around that number 🛸

Same with my trusty email list.

A few subscribers up.. then a few down.. and repeat.

But, what can I REALLY expect?

I HAVEN’T TAKEN AUDIENCE GROWTH SERIOUSLY SINCE 2017.

In 2023 though, I changed my business model.

I gained clarity on my founder type and ditched the big, stressful business to to intentionally go back to my creator roots.

Here’s why:

In November 2022, I turned 40.

And let me tell YOU:

There’s something about turning 40 that puts everything into perspective.

It makes you realise that you are not, in fact, immortal.

That “later in life” has actually come WAY FASTER THAN YOU THOUGHT IT WOULD.

It helped me – in the best possible way – to define my dreams and what I REALLY wanted to do with the increasingly limited time I have left.

Here’s what I realised in the process:

That I was really, really proud of what I’d achieved in the 7 years prior since I’d started my business.

.. Even though I was a late bloomer.

.. Even though I’d spent FAR TOO MUCH of my life *ahem my twenties into my early thirties* waiting for the weekend and losing myself in happy hour.

.. And even though I’d veered a little off course in building the wrong model for me.

With every misstep, I’d had the tenacity, courage and clarity to course correct and keep chasing after my dreams.

And ALSO?

I realised that I was in NO WAY DONE YET.

That in many ways, I was just getting started.

And if YOUR dream is to build a lifestyle business, Lifestyle Business School is the thing I have personally built to help you get there.

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The No Team Dream: A One-Woman Show Working 5-Hour Days With 80% Profit Margins

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 16:00:00 GMT

In the past two years, I have gone from three full time team members..
To me, one part time contractor.
The result of scaling DOWN my team?
My business went from 40% profit margins on a good month.. To 80%, always.
I halved my revenue.. But took home WAY more profit.
And I felt lighter, happier and more fulfilled than I had in years, with my days spent working on the things that truly light me up.
Two years on, things looked so very different..
It feels like a dream.
The no-team dream.
Systems Over Team

So, what changed?
And specifically, what ENABLED me to re-build my business A One-Woman Show Working 5-Hour Days With 80% Profit Margins?

Here’s the cliff notes:
From a business model perspective, I moved to a model that felt far more aligned.
It required fewer moving parts, fewer offers and fewer resources.
And I started prioritising systems over team.

It looks like this:
✔️ A Simple Model: One of the most overlooked “secrets” to an elegant business is simplicity. More offers, more work. I worked on refining my business model and offer suite to be simple.
✔️ Increased Leverage: I built offers that leverage my time by packaging my Intellectual Property into scalable offers that were divorced from my time (and didn’t require big team to run).
✔️ And Systems BEFORE Team: Rather than hiring FIRST, I worked to systemise as much of my business as possible, so that my time is now leveraged by processes, automations and tools instead of another set of hands.

Together, those three things, once achieved, are a little thing called Operational Elegance – and it has changed my (business) life.
Operations doesn’t sound sexy.
But truly, it is the thing that has set me free.
I want other people to experience it, and it’s why I have dedicated my entire business mission since 2022 to help others achieve the same.

If you resonate with this mission? Lifestyle Business School is for you.

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🏥 17 Metrics to Health Check the Vital Signs of Your Expert Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Wondering how to diagnose the health of your expert business? 🏥

Set and read the vital signs!

Vital signs are key Performance Indicators for each key area 👀

In today's podcast episode, we're breaking down 17 key metrics and KPIs to track in your business across three key areas.

Having clarity on these metrics is game-changing, because it gives you CONTROL over your business.

You are empowered because you know what is going wrong, and exactly how to fix it.

Or, what is working - and how to do more of it!

Later this week, we are hosting a free class called Operational Elegance, where we will break down these metrics in more detail and show you how you can track, report and improve on them to help you to make your business more efficient.

Who knew math could be so fun.. and freeing!

🖤 CEO/Top Level Metrics

CEO metrics will give you a clear picture of the overall health of your business - how much money you are making, how much you are keeping (profit), how much you are working to get it and how much of that work is needle-moving “genius zone” work. From there, you can measure your personal hourly rate, and you’ll have a baseline to improve.

Metrics to track:

Revenue
Personal Profit
Profit Margin
Hour Worked
Hours in Genius Zone
Hourly Rate
Fulfilment Rating

🖤 Marketing Metrics

Marketing metrics measure the HEALTH of your marketing and sales initiatives. If they’re unhealthy, it will show up in your CEO metrics a month or two later so it’s important to keep them well. In addition to the “qualitative” metrics above, focus also on metrics you can 100% control - being, quantatitve metrics like NUMBER of posts, NUMBER of podcast episodes and NUMBER of emails. You can’t always control the “outcome”, but you CAN control what you do.

Metrics to track:

Traffic
Leads
Organic Reach
Downloads
Actions

🖤 Delivery Metrics

Delivery metrics are the lifeblood of your business. If you aren’t delivering EXCEPTIONALLY well, your marketing won’t work long term (people talk, and unhappy students leave). Keep a pulse on client happiness and outcomes ALWAYS.

Metrics to track:

Retention
Renewals
Testimonials
Anon Feedback Rating
Results

Of course, these are just example metrics and the actual metrics you track will depend on your business.

The best way to track and measure these?

Implement a scoreboard and track them all weekly.

Even better, assign key metrics to other people and have THEM be responsible for them, plus track and measure them and report them to you weekly.

🟢 Colour them green if you’re hitting your goals;

🟠 Orange if you’re off track;

🔴 Red if they are bombing.

What gets measured, gets improved.

Track > optimise > improve > repeat.

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How Lucy the Lawyer Made $20k in Her First Lazy Launch

Stevie Dillon — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT

If you've ever felt like your industry has too many rules or regulations to create an online course, that you don't have the time or that it's all too hard - you need Lucy in your life.

Lucy Percy is an expert estate planning lawyer, and the founder of online law firm Head and Heart Estate Planning. Around the time Lucy joined Launchpad in December 2021, she was due to undergo huge changes and committed to prioritising creating a course SO THAT she could set her family up for the future and create more time freedom in the long term.

Lucy's approach and the Head and Heart Estate Planning framework is so unique because it is a complete solution including the must-have legals, but also ensuring her clients are leaving a legacy of love and passing on their important life admin knowledge. Lucy's course, Future Proof Your Family has allowed her to deliver her highly valuable and unique services using a hybrid model, at an inclusive investment price to protect more families.

In today's podcast episode, Lucy walks through her journey as a course creator, why professional regulations are no reason to hold you back and her value and purpose-driven reason behind creating her flagship course.

In this podcast, we cover:
👉🏻 The reason why Lucy decided that she needed to make a shift in her business model;
👉🏻 What caused Lucy to make a change, and how she went about deciding on her flagship course topic;
👉🏻 How Lucy got paid to create her course without webinars, launching or funnels;
👉🏻 Why the size of community and audience is not as important as the engagement that you receive when putting forward your offer;
👉🏻 How Lucy navigates feeling like a novice in course creation;
👉🏻 And more!

More about our Guest, Lucy Percy:

Follow Lucy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headandheartestateplanning/

Stop letting your estate planning slip to the bottom of the to-do list. Smash it out and protect your kids and everything you have worked hard for by joining Lucy's program Future-Proof Your Family: https://head-and-heart-estate-planning.mykajabi.com/fpyf

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/174

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How Britt Got Paid to Create Her Online Course (Without Webinars, Launching or Funnels)

Stevie Dillon — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Ever told yourself that you don't have the TIME to create an online course?

What if you were to switch "I don't have time" for "I'm not making this a priority," and you were to see how that feels?

That's exactly what Britt did when, 12 months ago, she committed to prioritising creating a course SO THAT she could free up more of her time in the long term.

As a social media manager, Britt's time was capped - she didn't want to scale to be a big agency. With clients consistently enquiring about her services but no ability to serve them without burning out, she joined our Launchpad program.

Just five months later, she had sold out her Foundation Round, and 12 weeks after that had created her Instagram content course, Conquer Your Content.

In today's podcast episode, Britt walks through her journey as a course creator, why it's not all piña coladas on the beach and her honest account of 12 months growing a new business model.

In this podcast, we cover:

👉🏻 The reason why Britt decided that she needed to make a shift in her business model;
👉🏻 Why time initially held her back, and how she changed her perspective with an important mindset shift;
👉🏻 How Britt got paid to create her course without webinars, launching or funnels;
👉🏻 The continual evolution required in your messaging to be an effective course creator;
👉🏻 How Britt navigates kicking goals as a perfectionist;
👉🏻And more!

More about our Guest, Brittany Worthington:

Follow Britt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesocialbritify/

Download Britt's secret weapon to keeping her content and ideas organised and ready to go, (her weekly and monthly content planners). Group your hashtags and keep track of what time and platform your content is going live on with these easy to use weekly and monthly spreadsheets - the same ones I use for myself and my clients! https://thesocialbritify.activehosted.com/f/4

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Building Authority and Becoming a Micro Celebrity in Your Niche

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Jul 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Tough love-bomb 💘💣 —

Without authority, you will find it incredibly tough to sell.

And without authoring content (literally, the “author” in authority), you will find it incredibly tough to build authority. It’s as simple (and as difficult!) as that.

Think about the people that you buy from and work with online. Most likely, you decided to do so because you had developed a sense of rapport and trust with them through the content that they created and shared online.

Certainly, it is true for our OWN business. When clients join our Launchpad program, we ask on the intake form where they found us. The Podcast and Instagram, they overwhelmingly say. And, even if they FIRST came into our sphere via Facebook ads or another means, it is still usually our podcast and content that warms and endears them to us and is the catalyst for them purchasing.

If you want a sustainable business online, you can’t simply show up and start selling and expect for people to flock through the door.

In our Launchpad program, we have a Foundation Round in which our clients pitch their courses and get paid to create them. One thing we know for sure? Is that it’s the clients that follow our Traffic and Visibility plan and commit to showing up, being visible, sharing their thought leadership and authority in the lead up that reach their big goals. A big red flag? Sending one email, writing one blog post and creating one social media post.. after being dark for weeks or months.. and then wondering where it all went wrong.

If you want an expert business, in which people look up to you as a thought leader and want to follow your processes to achieve the transformation promise of your course? You NEED authority, and authoring content. Well, it’s a complete non-negotiable.

Here’s five tips for building authority and becoming a thought leader in your niche:

1️⃣ Commit to a Core Content Channel

2️⃣ Take a Stand and Stake Your Ground

3️⃣ Be Consistent AND Consistently Awesome

4️⃣ Build Multiple Touchpoints

5️⃣ Create Micro Content

Doors to our Launch Your Wildly Successful Podcast course will be opening next month, and if there is one thing I know for sure? It’s that podcasting is one of the BEST ways to build your authority, thought leadership and become a micro celebrity in your niche.

It’s NOT too late. You’re NOT too early.

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How I Got MORE Qualified Leads In 14 Days Than I Did In the Previous 12 Months - Without a Single Social Media

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 11 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Still blaming your lack of engagement, follower count or 'that damn algorithm' for the crickets chirping in your business bank account?

We gotta talk ;)

Give it to me straight — how many SALES did your current marketing efforts net you last week?

Specifically.

My guess? Either you have no idea, you’re not entirely sure because you can’t track it or, goose egg. Not ideal when the whole reason you’re ON social media is to get more clients, customers or students, right?

If you ALREADY have social media followers, but they aren’t turning into customers/clients/students, is MORE followers the answer to your problems?

The answer is NO.

Earlier this year, I decided that I'd created enough content to last me several lifetimes - and though I credit it with the business I have today and it WORKED for me, I realised a few things:

👉 I already had people in my audience;

👉 Although they liked my stuff, I didn’t have a GATEWAY offer to take the relationship OFF social and to prime them for my offers;

👉 As a result? I had a TINY number of people in my main thing — and a HUGE number consuming free content, listening to FREE weekly podcasts, and doing all the of free things, but who weren’t quite READY for that main thing.

I realised there was a gap between my FREE stuff and my MAIN offer — and it was hurting my business.

I wanted a way to bring qualified leads pouring through the door - and to convert the people I ALREADY have in my audience - that DIDN’T involve just posting all day every day on social.

So, I created a gateway offer.

With a low cost, high value digital product — specifically, a three part workshop designed to solve a very specific problem I KNEW my audience had before needing my BIG thing.

I decided to test the waters by running some ads to cold traffic prior to launching it to my people.

In less than 30 days it bought more QUALIFIED leads (I mean perfect fit buyers for my main offers — very different to just any old IG follower or email subscriber) into my business than the entire year before that.

In this episode, I break down how we did it.

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/141

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🌈 How to Make Instagram FUN Again With Britt Worthington, The Social Britify

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Feeling like you need a five year bachelor degree in Marketing just to show up on Instagram?

In today's podcast episode, Britt Worthington from The Social Britify (@thesocialbritify) is back to help you escape Instagram post-paralysis and get the visibility, attention and leads your business needs with a simple formula for reverse-engineering your content strategy (and finally stop overthinking it).

She's on a mission to make Instagram fun again, and those vibes are CONTAGIOUS. I have personally taken some of her approach into my Instagram strategy recently, and my engagement has never been higher.

Here's a few of the things we cover:

Why everyone is over the standard advice on Instagram, and how it is stopping people from showing up at all;
Why content pillars are the worst approach to planning your Instagram content, and what to do instead;
The "top down" approach to planning your Instagram content, and how to map out concepts that align with your goals;
The importance of leaning into your own strengths and preferences when it comes to choosing the vehicle for your Instagram posts;
How to start seamlessly creating authentic, genuine and impactful content that gets you in front of the right people;
HOW IT MAKE IT ALL FUN!

Britt is also hosting an anti-masterclass this week (it's a masterclass, but with none of the boring bits) called "How to Make Instagram Fun Again." To register (I'll be there with BELLS on), head to https://thesocialbritify.txfunnel.com/registerhere

With love,

Stevie

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PS Don't miss Britts Instagram class on Thursday, to register and find out how to make Instagram fun again, click here: https://thesocialbritify.txfunnel.com/registerhere

PPS Doors to Lifestyle Business School are always open, this is the complete Operating System for building (or re-building) an expertise-based online business to the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot. Our steadfast view? The earlier you join, the BETTER the deal you get and for those joining right now - you are in for a treat, because you will get access to something HUGE coming next month at the current foundation rate. To join Lifestyle Business School, go to http://www.lifestylebusiness.school

PPPS We've just made FREE for a limited time our 76-point Business Diagnostic for expertise-based businesses to help them self-assess the health of the back end of their online business. To get your hands on it, click here: https://www.thecoursecartelacademy.com/cioy5saz

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How Victoria Has x4-ed Her Ad Spend and Made $15k Within Months of Launching Her First Course

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 19:00:00 GMT

If you've ever coasted along, unsure when to finally take the leap and REALLY make the most of your life, Victoria's story will hopefully inspire you to get started without it taking a significant health event to put everything into perspective. In 2020, Victoria had a health scare that forced her to reprioritise the things that really mattered in her life and to finally make the waves of impact in the leadership space that would make a real difference.

Victoria Brown helps new and emerging leaders bust through all the leadership BS, and become please-let-me-work-for-you baddie #bosses. After an 18 year career working on incredible brands (like Air New Zealand, Village Roadshow, BBC and Swarovski) where she has led amazing teams and worked with jaw-dropping talent all over the world, Victoria obsessed with helping new leaders who want to do things differently. Her business Brighten Project offers leadership coaching and team development for leaders who want to smash through ceilings and achieve epic things.

In today’s podcast episode, we delve into how our Launchpad client Victoria used her incredibly successful career and determination to create a better future for upcoming leaders and how her course Epic Self Leadership Program propels forward her mission.

Here’s what we cover:
👉🏻 All things Victoria, her vast incredible 18-year career and what led her to create her digital course;
👉🏻 What caused the pivot for wanting to create a flagship course?
👉🏻 The beginning of Victoria's Launchpad journey;
👉🏻 The impact Victoria's digital course and Launchpad has had on her life and business;
👉🏻 What advice would you give someone who is thinking about joining Launchpad?
👉🏻 The realisation that Victoria now feels completely aligned and lit up by the work she is doing.

More about our Guest, Victoria Brown:
Follow Victoria on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brightenproject/
Learn how to crush your new leadership role with her 5-step checklist to help you build confidence and clarity in your new leadership role: https://www.brightenproject.com/newleaderchecklistoptin

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/175

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Lifetime Access v Limited Time Access to an Online Course: What I’m Testing, My Thoughts and the Pros/Cons

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 15:00:00 GMT

I’m launching this week (could you tell? 😆) In the lead up, I committed to something that I have been going back and forth on for literal MONTHS:

Switching Lifestyle Business School from LIMITED TIME ACCESS (one year) to UNLIMITED ACCESS (for as long as the course exists). It’s a nuanced decision, and I still don’t know what the right answer is.

But intuitively, I really felt a pull to test it — and so, a week ago I pulled the trigger.

So in today's podcast I'll be talking about the pros and cons, why I’m testing it for this launch and why I’m actually not 100% committed that there is one “right” way — yet. I will test it, see what the data says, and decide from there.

And PS — if you have been thinking about joining Lifestyle Business School, this MAY be the only time I offer unlimited access (it will depend on the outcome of my experiment offering it!) So, now is the time.

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RIGHT NOW, in this launch, you can join Lifestyle Business School and get access to curriculum for as long as the program exists. So, now is the time to join if its been on your mind because this is ONE BIG EXPERIMENT that you will get to hugely benefit from.

Join now before doors to this offer close and the price increases on 31 October.

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Pay Me Attention: How to Grow, Fast.

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Ahhhh, attention (aka traffic, aka your ‘top of funnel’ in marketing speak).

The darling of the Internet!

Understandably so, it’s the tip of the proverbial Internet iceberg and the ONLY thing that’s visible when we’re scrolling online. And for that reason, we’re obsessed with it and start to think that the ultimate success of our online businesses lives and dies by it.

And whilst it’s true that it matters, it’s just one piece of the marketing funnel pie.

Let’s talk all things top of funnel – aka traffic, aka the darling of the Internet – and answer some of the biggest questions.

[🎉 New!] Subscribe to Stevie's Substack for weekly articles and behind the scenes: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

Episode Shownotes
00:00 Introduction: Capturing attention and growing your audience
00:29 Understanding the marketing funnel
01:13 Five hot tips: Top of funnel strategies
01:25 Tip 1: Top of funnel comes last
05:11 Tip 2: Clarify your business model
09:50 Tip 3: Build your email list
16:20 Tip 4: Message market fit
21:33 Tip 5: Getting attention
40:58 Conclusion and summary

———

Recommended next episode:

→ Ep 270: Marketing Has Changed. Here’s What You MUST Know to Sell Scalable Offers Right Now.

→ Ep 271: Are Funnels Dead? No, But Things Are MESSY Right Now (Here's What to Do About It)

Links Mentioned:

→ Traffic Playbook [Currently 70% Off]: Get the Marketing System for driving the volume and quality of traffic required to sell your scalable offers in 2025.

→ Click Power Podcast Episode

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Personal Brand v Business Brand — How My Thoughts (And Social Handles!) Are Changing

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Last year, I spent in excess of about $35,000 on a huge rebrand.

The thought process was this —>

I want to build a company.

I have a team and I don’t want it to feel like it’s just about me.

Stevie Says Social no longer aligned.

And, at the time, all of those things were true.

Still are, really.

But over the subsequent months, my thoughts on how I want to position my business and personal brand shifted slightly AGAIN, and so in today’s podcast episode I want to share some of that nuance with you in case it serves you also.

As with ALL decisions in business, there is no “universal truth” when it comes to these things, only ever what serves YOU and the goals you have.

And here, right now, are my thoughts (and upcoming shifts) in terms of what serves ME and this small + mighty business in this moment.

In this podcast episode we discuss:
✔️ Bringing My Personal Brand Back to Life
✔️ Exit Businesses v Lifestyle Businesses
✔️ Projects v Businesses
✔️ A Personal Brand is the Most Important Superpower You Have Online
✔️ So, What’s Changing?
✔️ And More!

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The Two Step Formula for SOLD OUT SALES of your Online Course or Program

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 08 May 2023 19:00:00 GMT

PRE PS: THIS WEEK on Thursday, we are hosting a very special LIVE private training where, for the very last time, we are sharing our complete methodology for a successful online course selling system that has a steady flow of highly qualified traffic and a well optimised and high performing selling system.

If you've ever been curious to know about our process, we highly recommend that you come along here. There is NO obligation to join us in Launchpad if you just want to come along to the training! It's completely free to come along, and incredibly valuable.

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The formula for sold out sales is SIMPLE, but not easy.

Here's the special sauce:

Traffic + Conversion = Sold Out Sales.

Traffic refers to eyeballs on your offer 👀

And conversion refers to whether those eyeballs purchase 💸

In today's podcast episode, we are breaking down these ESSENTIAL pillars for online courses, and how to optimise both for success.

In this episode, we discussed:
✔️ The Four Essential Elements for Online Course Success;
✔️ Traffic;
✔️ Conversion;
✔️ And MORE!

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/197

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The Four Levers You Can Pull to Supercharge the Growth of Your Online Course Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Growing an online course business is SIMPLE, but not EASY. If you want to supercharge the growth of your online business, there are FOUR core levers available for you to pull on.

The secret to BIG success? Taking FAST action, knowing which lever to pull based on the data you receive from the action you take, and continually optimising.

In today's podcast episode, we are breaking down the FOUR levers you can pull to supercharge the growth of your online course business.

✔️ Lever #1 - Lead Generation
✔️ Lever #2 - Conversion Rate
✔️ Lever #3 - Price
✔️ Level #4 - Increasing Revenue Per Sale

Full show notes for this episode can be found at:
https://thecoursecartel.com/168

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Why Your Love For Instagram Is Making Me Nervous

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 25 Apr 2018 02:08:55 GMT

Okay guys, I’m just gonna come out and say it. Your - OUR - love of Instagram is getting a little obsessive, and quite frankly?

It’s making me NERVOUS.

I get it, because I love that gorgeous little visual-eye-candy babe of a platform too.

It’s so pretty, and social, and there’s still good organic (see also: FREE) engagement.

When you post a pic, people LIKE it and it makes you feel all fuzzy inside.

And for that reason, it’s worlds apart from your barren engagement desert of a Facebook business page which is REALLY just no fun at all. AmmmIright?

Here’s the thing, though.

The Instagram obsession has really hit a whole new level in the past few months.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Instagram Sales Secrets

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Sooo.. how many sales did you make with Instagram last week?

Awkward silence Crickets Clears throat and shifts awkwardly in seat

Let me guess: Zero?

Aaaaand... how much time did you spend on the platform scrolling, posting, all of the things?

Maaaaybe more than you'd care to admit?

If so, this episode is for YOU.

We're covering my NEW four step process for making sales from Instagram, without spending all of your time posting.

Things on the platform have changed in the last while, and I want to make sure you aren't implementing old strategies and wasting your precious time doing things that just don't move the needle anymore.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Don't Take It Personally: Inviting Frank, Fair Feedback from Your Clientele and Using It to Improve

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Asking for — and having the objective ability to hear — frank feedback from your clientele on your business and their experience with it is one of the BEST ways to improve and become the VERY best in class.

Is it always easy? No.

But is it oh so worth it? Abso-freakin-lutely.

Especially in small business — where we personally invest our blood, sweat and tears into our offers — there can be a tendency to take everything very personally.

One of the most freeing realisations though is that actually, nothing in your business is about you.

Your business is fundamentally about solving people's problems. If you are doing well, you will get positive feedback — which is great, but actually has nothing to do with you as a person.

Equally, if you get constructive feedback (or even downright criticism), again, it has NOTHING to do with you as a person. It means that there is a gap in your offer or in your processes that needs to be filled.

Treating it as such is critical especially if the feedback is delivered constructively.

In today's podcast episode, we're covering how to "operationalise" the collection of regular feedback from your clientele into your business to keep a pulse on their experience, to look for opportunities to improve and to, as we say inside of our OWN business, to be 1% better each and every single day.

Here's five things to think about when incorporating something similar:

✔️ Realise It's Not About You
✔️ Refine One Offer
✔️ Fight for Feedback
✔️ Action It!
✔️ The Client Isn't ALWAYS Right

Full show notes for this episode can be found at

https://thecoursecartel.com/162

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How Nicki and Vicci Made $120k in 7 Days With Their 'Industry First' Digital Course

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Want to know how Nicki and Vicci made $120k in less than 7 days with an "industry first" course idea?

From a Wildly Successful nature play business to a digital course teaching others how to create their OWN Wild Play business, Nicki and Vicci had a truly life and business changing first launch inside of our flagship program Launchpad last year, and they are now positively impacting not only the trajectory of their own business, but their family and all of the students they now serve in their flagship program too.

In today's podcast episode, we break down exactly how they did it!

Nicki and Vicci are highly experienced teachers, business owners, changemakers and Forest School educators who are passionate about all things nature play, risky play, adventurous play and especially a child's right to play. With over 30 years of teaching, guiding and educating behind them, ranging from the state school system to marine biology, outdoor recreation and of course, their own successful business, Wildlings Forest School, these ladies have the depth and breadth of knowledge to be able to help you create, grow and scale your own wildly successful nature play business.

Episode Summary:

[02.35] Why Nicki & Vicci wanted to create a digital course.
[06:09] The vision and bringing it to fruition.
[08:54] Going from a podcast to a digital course.
[12:19] On taking a gamble and selling out their Foundation Round in 24 hours.
[14:19] Wondering whether they could achieve a valuable transformation without 1:1 time.
[16:38] How the Launchpad foundation round process helped them.
[26:27] Launching & overcoming imposter syndrome.
[33:10] Kicking perfectionism to the curb.
[37:21] Setting launch goals.
[40:00] How they pulled off a $120k launch in 7 days.

FOLLOW OUR GUESTS, NICKI AND VICCI:

Follow Wildlings Forest School on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildlings_forestschool/
Website: www.wildlingsforestschool.com/wild-business

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/134

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A Quick Note on Motivation v Discipline

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 23 May 2022 19:00:00 GMT

“BUT I DON’T FEEL LIKE IT TODAY!!!” - Says everyone, always, when their motivation wanes.

But, what if we told you that being MORE motivated is the LAST thing you need when it comes to marketing your business?

There are so many moving elements when running a business, from balancing your books, business plans, hiring staff members, financial planning and paying bills. Yet we never use the phrases “I’m not in the mood”, “I don’t feel like showing up today” or “I will once I find the motivation” when it comes to these ‘critical’ business tasks.

So, why is it that these ‘excuses’ are commonly used (me included) when it comes to one of the most CRITICAL elements for your business’ long term sustainability - namely, your marketing?

In today’s podcast episode, I cover the difference between motivation and discipline and why I’ve stopped relying on motivation when it comes to all things marketing.

Here's what we cover:

✔️ What is the Difference Between Motivation and Discipline?
✔️ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on Motivation to Reach Your Business Goals.
✔️ How Do We Shift Marketing Back Into The Core Element Bucket?

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://thecoursecartel.com/147

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Five BIG Changes in the Online Business Landscape (And How to Navigate Them Confidently)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 26 Sep 2022 19:00:00 GMT

If there was ONE thing that I would class as "constant" in the Online Education industry, it would be change. Digital education is a billion dollar industry at the forefront of the "move online" movement that we have experienced in fast-forward over the past two years. With more people comes more opportunity... And also, more competition.

The things that might have worked a few years ago, the "leeway" you may have had to do things "half-assed"... they're both gone. And for those of us in or considering entering the online education industry you have two choices - adapt and up-level, or leave.

In today's podcast episode, I will be sharing five BIG changes that I have noticed in the Online Business (and education) industry over the past little while.

I have a unique viewpoint, with both five years of experience in my OWN business and access to hundreds of "online business back ends" through my students inside of our Launchpad program.

So, here it is, what I've noticed and what YOU can do to navigate the ever-changing tides of the online education industry with confidence.

✔️ "Fast" Lead Generation is More Difficult
✔️ "Same Same" Offers Aren't Converting
✔️ Authority Matters More Than Ever
✔️ You Can't Rely (Just) on Social
✔️ Pricing Matters

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/164

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How to Use Facebook Live and Instagram Stories for Business with Emily Spicer-Stuart

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 00:23:47 GMT

In this podcast episode, we cover how to use both Facebook Live and Instagram Stories for Business with Business Marketing Coach Emily Spicer Stuart.

As a business coach working so closely with her clients, it’s super important that her potential clients feel like she is someone that they can connect with.

This is something that is true for most service-based businesses; the biggest barriers to someone working with you are showing that you are someone that knows what they are doing, and also that you are someone that they like and can relate to.

Emily overcomes both of these objections with a (very!) strong social media marketing game that focuses specifically on Instagram Stories and Facebook Live.

Links + Resources

You can find Emily at www.emilyspicerstuart.com, on Instagram and Facebook.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Social Media and Content Collaborations with Jess Ruhfus, Collabosaurus

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 24 Jul 2018 11:16:44 GMT

There are a few strategies that I think have the ability to completely supercharge your social media, marketing and entire business. One of those is, without a doubt, social media and content marketing collaborations.

Within 6 months of starting to do this, I was able to quit my full-time job and start my business with a fully booked roster of clients.

I have never 'pitched' for work in the traditional sense since.

So yeah, collaborations work and I'm pretty damn passionate about them.

Chatting about all things collaboration marketing on the podcast, then, was a complete no brainer.

And when I decided that I wanted to that, Jess Ruhfus was the obvious choice of person to chat to.

As the Head Cheese and Founder at Collabosauras, Jess is the queen of collaboration marketing.

Links + Resources

To check out Collabosauras, head to https://collabosaurus.com/

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Seven Ways Podcasting Has Transformed My Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 28 Oct 2019 15:00:00 GMT

Wondering if you should start a podcast?

In this episode of the Stevie Says Social podcast, I break down all of the different ways in which starting a podcast has transformed my business!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Tips and Tricks for Facebook Ads Success with Cat Skreiner, Seeking Digital

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Want some tips and tricks for Facebook Ads success from someone in the trenches running them every day?

Yeah?

Well, you’re in luck because that is exactly what I’m going to give you!

Cat Skreiner is a self-confessed tech nerd who - after 20 years in the marketing space working for some of the biggest brands around - now focuses on Facebook Ads strategy and digital analytics.

In other words, she knows her shiz when it comes to running killer Facebook ads.

So, I decided to get the DL on Facebook Ads from someone in the know

AKA? From Cat!

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How Christie Went from 0 to $35k In Online Course Sales in Less Than Six Months

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 08 Nov 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Curious how endo dietician Christie went from 0 to $35k in course sales in her brand new digital course business in less than six months - without a big audience, complicated funnels or multiple launches?

In this podcast episode, we cover:

The catalyst for Christie deciding to scale back her 1:1 work and build a digital product;
Her reservations around delivering a valuable transformation that DIDN'T require more of her time;
How she made $20k to validate her course WITHOUT launching;
How she has structured her business to serve people at multiple different price points;
Her experience in launching her program the first time, and how she is preparing to do it next time around;
And more!

If you're a dietician, health professional, or service provider wondering how you can build a business model that gives you the freedom to serve more people WITHOUT burning yourself with MORE 1:1 work, Christie's story is for you.

Want to know MORE about Christie and her Program, Beat the Endo Belly?

Join Christie's Free Live Training "Steal My Nutrition Roadmap for Beating Endo Belly, Period Pain, Funky Poops and Fatigue" https://courses.christieleenutrition.com/webinar-registration

Go to Christies Website: www.christieleenutrition.com.au

Follow Christie on Instagram: https:/www.instagram.com/endometriosis.dietitian

Full show notes for this episode can be found at
https://www.thecoursecartel.com/124

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How to Get your Business Mindset Ready for 2019 with Anna Jonak from Business School for Mums

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 08 Jan 2019 03:29:28 GMT

Struggling to get into the right mindset to kick some serious business goals as we start in the new business year? I feel you.

After a huge end to 2018 followed by two weeks of blissful rest, recovery and beach time, it’s a little tougher than usual to get back into the swing of things, right?

That’s why I decided to bring Anna Jonak on as the very first Talk Social to Me podcast guest for 2019.

Anna is one half of Business School for Mums, an education hub for Mums in Business. BSFM’s mission is clear – to deliver Mums all the coaching, training & resources they need to ensure RESULTS in their small business.

Anna is also a mindset QUEEN, and in this podcast episode we spoke about:

The biggest mindset blocks she sees;
How perfectionism can present itself in procrastination;
Some of the biggest mindset challenges faced by new business owners;
How ignorance and arrogance can thwart a new business owner’s early success;
The importance of running your own race;
The fear of putting yourself out there and how to tackle it;
And more.

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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Balancing Kids & Business: How I Am Navigating This "Full" Season of Life

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 04:00:00 GMT

Babies, toddlers, business, oh my!

I’ve always said that running a business is the biggest lesson in personal development that you could ever undertake… but throw a 2-year old, a 4-month old, 100 clients and a founder with BIG dreams and high expectations of yourself, and you’ve got yourself a right ‘ol recipe for... well, a good time, actually!

Betcha didn’t expect me to say that, did you? Because the RHETORIC is that is kids and business is HARD... and sure, I wouldn’t call it a walk in the park.

But also? I’ve CHOSEN this, and I literally wouldn’t have it any other way.

In today’s podcast episode, I want to share with you my unique perspective on navigating this “early childhood” phase of business and life, and how I “manage it all”... or more accurately, how I DON’T (and how I’m completely okay with that).

How it’s wildly beautiful and how ADJUSTING my expectations down has actually been the catalyst for a sense of happiness and calm in this season that I didn’t think was possible for this little high achiever 👋

In the past few months, I have had SO many other mums reach out to me and ask “how I do it”, “how I juggle it all”, “how I manage”.

And so I want to share with you NOT my “expert guide to parenting and business”, because actually, I don’t really have it all figured out and I don’t really want to come at this from the place of an expert.

But instead, my honest account and thoughts on the best way I personally have found to navigate this beautiful, wild season of life... in case it helps you too.

If you’re a mum navigating business and babies — YOU ARE AMAZING, and I think it’s nice to know that! NO ONE has it all figured out (and that is totally okay).

✔️ Choose Your Hard (Why I Chose Digital Programs)

✔️ Everything is a Season / Choose Your Burners

✔️ Adjust Your Expectations

✔️ In 5 Years, What Will You Regret?

✔️ Guilt is a Useless Emotion

✔️ I Don’t Actually “Do It All”

✔️ Get Away

Full show notes for this episode can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/161

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How Dee Got Paid $10,000 to Create Her Online Course (Without Webinars, Launching or Funnels)

Stevie Dillon — Tue, 18 May 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Curious how Dee was paid - the tune of $10,000 - to create her online course (without webinars, launching or funnels?) Dee is the owner of Her Soulful Success, and in just a couple of months in our Launchpad program used our Foundation Student Fill Up Formula to do just that. Her Online Boss Builder flagship course teaches service providers how to scale to $100k in their first year of business. In this episode, we break down her decision to add an online course to her coaching business, the process she followed to get paid to create her course, her experience in Launchpad so far, how she scaled her business to $100k in less than a year, how she decides which mentors to invest in and much more.

Want to follow Dee, our guest on this episode? Here are her links!Follow Her Soulful Success on Instagram: @hersoulfulsuccess
Listen to the Her Soulful Success Podcast: @hersouldfulsuccessthepodcast
Sign Up for Magnetic Socials Webinar: Click Here

Full show notes for all episodes can be found at https://thecoursecartel.com/podcast/

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How to Choose a Profitable Online Course Topic

Stevie Dillon — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 05:00:00 GMT

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🐫 The Trust Desert: How to Win Trust, Develop Rapport and Sell "Like Before" in a More Difficult Season

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 15:00:00 GMT

🏜 We're officially in a trust desert, people. Your future buyers still want to buy, sure.

But, the times are a changin' and to keep up, we need to level up.

Here's just a few of the changes in the online business landscape that have accelerated over the past 12 months:

🤠 We're all super aware that there are cowboys in the industry, and many of us have been burnt by them;

💸 We don't have as much free cash to splash, and we're super wary of ensuring it goes to the right person for the job;

🤖 AI is advancing at a clip, and we're craving a unique perspective and a human to lead us;

💅🏼 The industry is becoming more sophisticated, and in a buyers market we're spoilt for choice; and

📈 Buying cycles are getting longer, as people stop responding to direct response marketing and instead are taking their time to make sure a purchase is the right one for them.

All of these changes have led to the "perfect storm"; one where the online business landscape is fast being split down the middle into two clear camps:

The first? Those willing to do what it takes to develop trust. And the second? Those still clinging onto the old ways of doing business, and wondering why it isn't working anymore.

In today's podcast episode, I'm breaking down what this trust desert is and five things to consider to ensure that you don't get left behind.

Here's a summary of points covered:

1) Touchpoints: The need for more touchpoints to build rapport with audience prior to purchase.

2) Audience: The increasing importance of audience and community.

3) Middle of Funnel: The non-negotiable need for a middle of funnel content channel.

4) Thought Leadership: Why how to content no longer cuts it.

5) Catering to Longer Buying Cycles: Why multiple touchpoints are needed to achieve a benchmark CVR.

If you need help with developing trust with a robust traffic system for developing traffic and building trust with them, you need Traffic Playbook! This is a full course included in Lifestyle Business School, and also able to be purchased separately.

To check it out, click here.

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🏔 The Tipping Point- Why Success Isn't Linear, the System for Scale and the Joy of the "Tipping Point"

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 16:00:00 GMT

In the past month, I experienced the “tipping point” in the leveraged business model I started building out from scratch 12 months ago.

All leveraged expertise-based models have them, IF YOU KNOW TO STICK WITH IT LONG ENOUGH TO GET TO THE MAGIC ✨

But, this isn’t always in line with the rhetoric online.

We hear of “quick wins”, “six figure launches” straight out of the gate and unicorns who build their dream business in a year.

And sure, with some business models, that may actually be possible.

Take a service-based or freelancer business model for instance.

You can build it in a day, book yourself out in a week and be making $10k in a month.

The trade off? That the revenue comes at the expense of your time.. forever.

When you’re creating a leveraged business model that ultimately gives you compounding revenue, high profit margins and MORE time back as time goes on, it’s different.

There’s the decision to start.

Then, the build.

And then FINALLY, the tipping point.

The tipping point is the inflection point where the work you have done up until that point starts to compound and snowball.

Your revenue starts to really increase.

Your time and the energetic lift starts to decrease.

And all of the hard work starts to pay off.

But, it’s a process, and it’s in NO WAY instant.

I think being more honest about this is only going to serve people, because they might then have more realistic expectations, stay in it for the long run and actually start to see the fruits of their labour over time.

In today’s podcast episode, I am going to share a little about that process.

I’ve followed this exact same process now for three iterations of my business.. and it’s the SAME EVERY TIME.

Podcast Episodes Referenced:

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⌛ How to Build an Email List to 1000 Subscribers From Scratch & For Free

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 08 Jul 2024 16:00:00 GMT

To sell an online course or leveraged offer, you need people to sell to.

[Read the full blog post here].

The problem?

Those looking to build an online course business from scratch usually fall into one of two camps.

1) They are existing content creators looking to leverage their extensive audiences by building a course based business around it; or

2) They are service providers seeking to take their skillset and build something more leveraged from it.

My experience is that usually?

In both cases, the founder hasn’t started or prioritised email list growth, and they are either starting from scratch or they are starting with a small email list that they haven’t nurtured.

So, how do you start and build an email list so that you are able to successfully sell an online course, group coaching program or membership?

Here’s two things to keep in mind first and foremost:

Firstly, quality matters much more than quantity.

The secret? A super aligned email list, and high quality nurture of the people on it.

Alignment comes from making sure that the lead magnet you offer to people in exchange for their email address is very closely aligned to the topic of your core offer.

High quality nurture means that your lead magnet is more than just a PDF.

People need several touchpoints with you (the number is up for date, but it has increased with time – last time, it was around 17) before they are ready to buy from you.

And secondly, your email list growth should be done WHILST you are building your business.

It’s common to spend months and years spinning your wheels trying to hit a magical number BEFORE you start selling, but actually?

The act of starting your course business and launching will be the thing that grows your list as you go.

For both of those reasons, the strategy I recommend for people that want to build a successful course business in 2024 is to start by creating a mini-course and delivering it live over four or so weeks.

Mid-Year Checkpoint Part #1: Reset Your 2023 Vision

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 29 May 2023 22:00:00 GMT

This week is a big week for me.

After three BIG years of planning, construction and building.. and a couple of years of preparing before that, we are finally moving into our "dream home".

This is the same home I put on my vision board when I started this business five years ago, and which I have systematically and strategically worked to have come to life.

It's one thing to strategise, though.

And it's entirely another to quite literally touch, feel and SEE the fruits of that strategic, aligned action come to life.

This very exciting moving week got me thinking about the power of vision setting, and using that vision to reverse engineer into a revenue and time goal to make it HAPPEN.

So much of the time, we set goals.. only to put them to the side when the hustle and bustle of the year kicks off in favour of "busy work".

(Hands up who set BIG goals for 2023, only to wonder how the flip we're in (almost) June and where the flip the year has gone?)

For me personally? It was only when I intentionally started not only ENVISIONING what I wanted, but then reverse engineering into very strategic business model, revenue plan and projects to make it happen that everything changed.

In today's podcast episode, I am sharing with you the EXACT process for doing just that.

It's part one of a two part series on how to design a business that reverse engineers into the BIG VISION you have for your life.

And if you want MORE? We've also JUST unlocked access to our FULL three part profit planning series, which hands you our FULL planning process (and corresponding spreadsheets for inputting your own work) for free.

You can get your hands on that here.

Let's finish the year STRONG!

(Now excuse, I am off to finish packing and moving... IT'S ALL HAPPENING!)

PS We have JUST unlocked access to our FREE, three part profit planning series especially for current and aspiring course creators ready to rock their next 6 months in business. Walk away with a simple, strategic plan for creating your own version of success in business and life with a flagship digital course. Get instant Access to Three Juicy Workshops + Planning Spreadsheets here.

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Are Funnels Dead? No, But Things Are MESSY Right Now (Here's What to Do About It)

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Recently, Google embarked on a mission to answer one question:

‘How do consumers decide what they want to buy and who they want to buy it from?’

The answer was.. squiggly, the say the least.

To stand out and sell in 2025, you’re not just ‘one funnel away’ anymore. Instead, it’s essential to build an ecosystem of touchpoints to satisfy the savvy, skeptical buyers that you’re the real deal.

The 'middle of funnel' is more important (and squiggly) than ever, and to stand out and sell? Yours needs to be robust.

The test is this — if someone found you right now, would they have 7-9 hours of touchpoint available with you to binge on demand? ⁠

If not, you need today's episode.

And if you do, you still need it - because there's four other tests I share, too.

Episode Show Notes:
00:00 The changing landscape of marketing
00:14 The middle of funnel squig
02:25 Reasons why the landscape has changed
02:26 Reason one: Trust desert
03:30 Reason two: A more discerning market
04:33 Reason three: Savvier research abilities
05:41 Five tips for standing out
08:18 One: Build a strong brand
14:34 Two: Establish a middle of funnel trigger
18:41 Three: Automate your middle of funnel ecosystem
25:35 Four: Create long form content
32:56 Five: Inject authority markers

[🎉 New!] Subscribe to Stevie's Substack for weekly articles and behind the scenes: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

———

Recommended next episode:

→ [Last week's episode]: Marketing Has Changed. Here’s What You MUST Know to Sell Scalable Offers Right Now.

Links Mentioned:

→ Don't Build Businesses! Build Projects! Part 1/5: The multi-passionate personal brand-based founders guide to a business that prints cash, serves well and sets you free

→ Traffic Playbook [Currently 70% Off]: Get the Marketing System for driving the volume and quality of traffic required to sell your scalable offers in 2025.

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Marketing Has Changed. Here’s What You MUST Know to Sell Scalable Offers Right Now.

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Marketing has changed. If you want to drive the volume and quality of traffic you need to sell your scalable offers in 2025, this is for you.

Side note — this is absolutely NOT for the full-time content creators, and the people who spend their days marketing online for a living. It’s for the people who NEED to understand how this stuff works to build the thing they ACTUALLY DO (without it taking 18,273 hours a week).

Episode Show Notes:
00:45 Understanding the marketing funnel
02:09 The Importance of messaging in marketing
07:10 Building an effective marketing funnel
14:35 Bottom of funnel
22:56 Middle of funnel
27:44 Top of funnel
34:28 Conclusion and Next Steps

PS [🎉 New!] Subscribe to Stevie's Substack for weekly articles and behind the scenes: https://lifestylebusinessschool.substack.com/

———

Recommended next episode:

→ Click Power: The One Metric That Could Sink Your Next Launch

Links Mentioned:

→ Traffic Playbook Course: Get the Marketing System for driving the volume and quality of traffic required to sell your scalable offers in 2025.

→ Substack Series on Refining Your Marketing Message (this is a series of five newsletters, it will be updated soon to include marketing messaging, positioning and more)

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🎓 I’ve Created 8 Courses in 12 Months. Here’s What I’ve Learnt

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 16:00:00 GMT

In the past 12 months, I’ve created 8 online courses.

That’s 680 lessons, according to my course platform.

[Read the full blog post here].

It’s all been part of a grand master plan I hatched in mid-2023 to build out the complete operating system for building a leveraged, expertise-based lifestyle business.

The eight courses are designed with that specific endgame in mind.

Here’s a summary:

Lifestyle Business School Roadmap: This is the overarching roadmap for mapping and tracking your progress to your personal endgame.
Dream and Design: Design the leveraged expertise-based business model that satisfies the Monday Morning test and feels just right for you.
Create and Validate: Build a simple, leveraged expertise-based offer suite (and the engaged lead list to sell it) in 12-weeks.
Deliver and Delight: The full delivery playbook for building out a stand out and streamlined online course, group program, membership or mastermind.
Rinse and Repeat: The ultimate collective of every live launch and promotion under the sun.
Traffic Playbook: Develop and execute a simple but sophisticated marketing plan to sell your scalable offers.
Automate and Accelerate: Build out a fully automated system of cascading campaigns to sell your offers on autopilot.. while you sleep.
[Not currently included in Lifestyle Business School] Operational Elegance: The full back end blueprint for running your online business including systems, structure and streamlined processes to simplify, scale.. or step back!

Here’s why it was important to me, though.

When I looked around, I saw too much piecemeal advice.

“Implement this strategy for success!” – one course would say.

“Do this and get your next 1000 followers!” – another would say.

The truth is, everything worked (if implemented).

But, the advice was piecemeal.

They were tactics, when ultimately what someone needs to build a successful leveraged lifestyle business is a simple, holistic strategy, and a clear map with all of the pieces laid out in order.

That’s what I have created in Lifestyle Business School.

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[Podcast Best Of] Personal Brand v Business Brand — How My Thoughts (And Social Handles!) Are Changing

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 16:00:00 GMT

I am taking a short break of one to two weeks from new podcast episodes. Here’s a ‘best of’ episode from the vault until I’m back!

Last year, I spent in excess of about $35,000 on a huge rebrand.

The thought process was this —>

I want to build a company.

I have a team and I don’t want it to feel like it’s just about me.

Stevie Says Social no longer aligned.

And, at the time, all of those things were true.

Still are, really.

But over the subsequent months, my thoughts on how I want to position my business and personal brand shifted slightly AGAIN, and so in today’s podcast episode I want to share some of that nuance with you in case it serves you also.

As with ALL decisions in business, there is no “universal truth” when it comes to these things, only ever what serves YOU and the goals you have.

And here, right now, are my thoughts (and upcoming shifts) in terms of what serves ME and this small + mighty business in this moment.

In this podcast episode we discuss:
✔️ Bringing My Personal Brand Back to Life
✔️ Exit Businesses v Lifestyle Businesses
✔️ Projects v Businesses
✔️ A Personal Brand is the Most Important Superpower You Have Online
✔️ So, What’s Changing?
✔️ And More!

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Instagram Is Not Your Marketing Plan [PLEASE Do This Instead]

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 16:00:00 GMT

“My launch failed”, she wrote to me one Sunday evening.
Weird, I thought.
I’d seen the funnel — it was good. So, I asked to dig into the stats.
“What was your conversion rate?”, I asked.
She stared at me blankly.
“You know.. the percentage of people in the launch that bought?”
Oh. There was six days of silence, and she emailed me back.
“5.4%”.
Well, I thought.. the launch didn’t fail. Actually, it converted GREAT. There just wasn’t enough traffic.
It was EASY for me to see the issue. And, to objectively see where the opportunity was to improve.
But, she couldn’t see it, and subjectively, in her mind it was a big fat flop.
It’s kind of the industry’s fault that this sort of thing is a HUGE issue.
We EXPECT fast success. Knock it out of the park wins in two seconds. And when it doesn’t work out like that? We scrap the WHOLE thing, and go and build something else from scratch.
But, that is a story for a different day.
For today? Let’s talk about HER, and how this scenario can be avoided with ONE thing.
This scenario is common:

GREAT launch.
HIGH conversion rate.
But, low traffic, so it's perceived as a flop.

It is a very common and vicious cycle that occurs when someone decides to start trying to build a more leveraged business model, and it looks like this:

Person builds offer;
They promote it on social media to a small audience;
They launch it and due to very small registrations, perceive the WHOLE thing as a flop (it's not, the LAUNCH worked great) despite a high buy rate;
Even if they DO realise that it was just more traffic that was needed, they have NO idea how to get it;
So, they try to haphazardly invest in Meta ads, or pitch podcasts with crappy angle and poor pitch game so nothing works;
They launch again with the SAME amount of traffic as the first launch;
They get even smaller results because everyone bought the first time, and eventually they give up altogether.

I've seen the cycle too many times, and here's what I've realised.

There is ONE thing missing, and it's letting down their WHOLE game.

That one thing?

A simple, effective marketing plan in place to drive the amount of traffic they need to sell their scalable offers with (relative) EASE.

And that's what we'll be talking about in today's podcast episode.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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The ULTIMATE Expertise-Based Business Diagnostic

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 19:00:00 GMT

🎁 I have a gift for you!

This time of year is the PERFECT time to take stock of what worked, what didn't and what you need to change or work on next year.

And, to help you take ACTION on doing that, I have created something for you!

Introducing.. the ULTIMATE Expertise-Based Business Diagnostic.

Click here to download it now

The intention of this business diagnostic is to help you to either audit your current business, or identify what you need to BUILD. Once you have all of the items in the audit built and optimised, you have the engine required for a sustainable, profitable and happy lifestyle business.

So, there are two things to do!

Download the expertise-based business diagnostic. You can do that here.
Listen to today's podcast episode, where we break the diagnostic down in detail.

There are five key areas covered in the diagnostic. Here is what each will assess:

Business Model: Whether you are set up with a leveraged model capable of achieving your version of the Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot;
Offer: Whether you have an irresistible leveraged offer that converts;
Leads: Whether you have a ready pool of high quality leads;
Sales: Whether you have high converting live launch and automated selling systems.
Delivery: Whether you have systemised and streamlined delivery processes for fulfilling your offers.

I recommend using this in your 2023/2024 planning process, to help you to identify the gaps and opportunities in your business.

Enjoy!

PS Side note? Lifestyle Business School doors are currently open. In the five weeks since we kicked off, we already have so many members taking BIG action. They are service providers, educators, online business owners like you. Want to do the same? Join us now, soak it all up and start 2024 strong. Click here to find out more.

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Five “Not-Money” Goals to Obsess Over For a Simple, Sustainable Lifestyle Business

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

THE "YOU'RE NOT SUCCESSFUL IF YOU'RE NOT MAKING A MILLION DOLLARS IN TWO SECONDS" RHETORIC NEEDS TO STAAAAHP.

Like, right now. The comparison-itis on the online space is RIFE right now -- which is totally fine if it was a healthy comparison of someone a few steps ahead with a realistic backstory, giving an honest account of their business journey.

It's NOT fine, however, when we're all starting to hold ourselves up to an "ideal" of million dollar years, million dollar launches and million dollar offers in two seconds.

The Australian Consumer Commission has a word for this type of behaviour in real life:

It's called Misleading and Deceptive Conduct.

And, it's highly illegal.

And yet, it seems that online, the "rules" don't apply.

Business "backstories" get blurred, "success" timelines get smudged and revenue figures get "creatively inflated" in order to sell a formula for online business success; and usually, one that generously sugarcoats the work, effort, time and sacrifice required to create something great.

The result?

We're all drowning in a puddle of not-enoughness. Wondering why we aren't "there" yet, what's wrong with us and diminishing the value of the hard work and small, steadily compounding wins that are the building blocks to sustainable success.

It's time to be much more honest about the journey of online business.

And instead to focus on YOUR journey, and building a business and a life that feels good for you - brick, by brick, by brick.

It's not sexy to say that it takes time, but on the flip side I think having awareness of that actually helps in enjoying the journey somewhat.

In today's podcast episode, we are ditching the "make six figures in six seconds" goal and instead, I'm am sharing 5 not-money goals to focus on as you start or scale your expertise-based online business.

Let's go!

Side note? I have a very special FREE invitation for you 💌

If you'd like to see more of my journey, I'd love for you to join my broadcast channel on Instagram - BTS of a Business Model Pivot: Finding My Lifestyle Business Sweet Spot! To get all of the juicy, raw, behind the scenes intel, click here and join us.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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My Business Story Year By Year [Part 1/2]

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Let's take a quick walk down memory lane.

My business is now five... coming on SIX... years in, and it's so easy to get caught up looking at someone a few steps ahead and wondering why you're not THERE yet.

The intention of this podcast is to help you to remember to stop keeping score, tracking your time, and instead focusing on consistency and the long game.

In today's podcast episode, I am walking you through part one of this series where I walk through each year of my business journey (including exactly how much revenue I made).

In part 1 of my business story, we discussed:
✔️ Year Zero - 2017
✔️ Year One - 2018
✔️ And MORE!

PS If you have ever gotten value from our podcast, I would be so grateful if you could take a moment to leave a quick rating and written review. It takes two minutes, and would make my day.

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Attention is Currency: The Three C's of Standing Out in a Saturated Space 👑

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 19:00:00 GMT

PRE PS Next week, my friend and client Alyce from Bossy. Copywriting is hosting a free training for small business owners ready to write STAND OUT copy and content. This training is for any product or service-based business owner, freelancer or side hustler that wants to get more attention, make more money and stop staring at the screen every time you need to write a caption! Register HERE.

IF YOU'RE NOT STANDING OUT, YOU'RE FITTING IN - AND FITTING IN IS VANILLA (when you verrrry much want to be Neapolitan with hundred and thousands).

Different is good.

Standing out is IT.

And learning how to craft a brand that oozes personality and helps you sell things (plus stand out in the TIDAL WAVE of AI-SAME SAME content) is an ESSENTIAL skill for all business owners.

(In fact, in my humble opinion? It's the secret sauce that makes EVERYTHING ELSE work).

So, when I knew I needed to talk stand out copy with you all because I was seeing a DISTINCT lack of spark out there, wayyyyy too many AI crafted captions and Threads one-liners that felt.. lacklustre at best (the point is to be funny and witty, guys ("BUT HOWWWW!", you say!!!), Alyce at Bossy. was of course the ONLY guest to speak to. Her copy is a joy to read, she has stamped personality on many of the big name brands and personalities you see in our space today and she knows this stuff like the back of her.. well, everything.

What I didn't know, of course, is HOW GOOD this episode would be, how much I have LOVE HEART EYES for talking about this stuff and how much I would learn, too.

Listen to the episode here.

In it, we riff on the three C's for stand out copy:
✔️ Confidence
✔️ Connection
✔️ And (to save the best for last).. Creativity

This is a must listen if you spend hours staring at a blinking cursor wondering how on EARTH not to sound like you're writing a tenth grade history paper and bring personality! Charisma (a FIFTH C!) And charm (on a roll here..) to your brand.

You're welcome.

PS You should also come to her masterclass, if you love this ep and you want to riff on this stuff WAAAAAY more.

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Missed Payments, Payment Plan Defaults and Cash Flow Crunches.. Let's Talk About It.

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 22 May 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Let’s talk about cash flow, because ultimately? CASH is the lifeblood of every business under the sun.

Recently, I have had a number of conversations behind the scenes with clients that are feeling challenged managing payment plans, failed payments and the resulting cash flow challenges in their business.

In today’s podcast episode, we’re diving deep into payment plans, cash flow management and more.

Online course and coaching businesses USUALLY offer payment plans as an option for students and clients that are unable to pay “up front” for an investment. It’s a unique concept, in the sense that the course creator is ultimately shouldering the risk of defaults in the same way a bank would.

Here’s 10 things to think about when offering payment plans, and how to minimise your risk in offering them:
👉 Expect Defaults
👉 Make Projections Based on Pay in Full Payments
👉 Make It Clear That Payment Plans Are NOT a Subscription You Can Cancel
👉 Look for Options to Release Risk
👉 Keep on Top of Missed Payments
👉 Be Careful of LONG Payment Plans
👉 Ensure You Follow Up
👉 Prepare Templated Responses for Difficult Situations and Keep at Arm's Length
👉 Lead With Kindness
👉 Incentivise Pay in Full Payments
👉 BONUS -- Understand the Dunning Kruger Effect
👉 AND more!

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Install These Instagram Systems to Streamline Your Social Media Game

Stevie Dillon — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Pre PS: My friend and client, The Social Britify, is running a 100% free training series next week called The Insta Overhaul, teaching you what's REALLY working when it comes to marketing on Instagram in 2023 - and specifically, how to use the platform to make a BIG IMPACT and SELL (whilst remaining as your most authentic self and avoiding total resentment towards the app). Sign up and check it out here.

If social media feels like a chore, you likely don't have sustainable systems in place.

In this week's episode, we explore how to install them into your business to lift your Instagram game.

Brittany Worthington is the founder of The Social Britify who you may recognise from last week's podcast episode or, as being one of our case studies inside of our Launchpad program.

In this podcast episode, Britt and I explore Instagram systems and strategies to streamline your social media game.

Want to install them into YOUR business?

In this podcast episode, we discussed:

✔️ The Importance of Systems for Capturing Ideas

✔️ How To Create More Efficient Content Creation Systems

✔️ How to Create Content for Different Phases of Your Sales Cycle

✔️ The Age-Old Debate: To Batch or Not To Batch

✔️ And MORE!

If you are a business or personal brand is on Instagram and you want to streamline your social media operations, this is the episode for you.

Want more? Here’s how we can help you:

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→ Follow Stevie on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/steviedillon_/

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