The Wide Open Podcast || Marketing, Mindset, and Business Podcast for Creatives & Photographers

How to Get Sponsors, Increasing Brand Visibility, and Getting Scrappy in BusinessThis week’s episode of The Wide Open Podcast is a little different - and in the best possible way. It originally aired live on Facebook as the very first installment of our new monthly segment called No Filter, where I sit down with my friend and fellow business owner Kelly Northlee of Fondy Famous and Not Your Average Marketing.No script. No curated talking points. Just an honest conversation between two business friends showing up exactly as we are.We each brought three things to the table:Something we're struggling withSomething we think the other person is doing wellSomething we're grateful forAnd then we just… talked. For real. Out loud. With no filter.This conversation was real, raw, and refreshingly unscripted. That’s the whole point of No Filter: creating space for honest, supportive conversations that remind us we’re not alone in the highs or the lows of business.We’re doing this every month, so we’d love to hear from YOU:What do you want us to talk about next?What are you struggling with right now?Any ideas to make this segment even better?Drop a comment, shoot us a message, or share this episode with a business friend who needs to hear it.Listen in now, and don’t forget: real business growth happens when we’re brave enough to show up without a filter.Links & Resources:Business Coaching for CreativesWisconsin Branding Photography

How to Build Confidence || Confidence & Networking for Business Growth with Annabelle KleinDoes self-doubt keep you from showing up for your business? Maybe you struggle with posting content, selling your offers, or putting yourself out there. Confidence is the key to consistency—and today’s guest is here to help.In this episode, I chat with Annabelle from the Thought Rebel Podcast, a confidence coach who helps business owners break free from old habits and finally step into their confidence. We’re diving deep into:🔥 How to recognize when a lack of confidence is holding you back🔥 Why confidence is essential for business success🔥 Practical ways to build confidence and create momentum🔥 The hidden mindset blocks that keep you stuck🔥 The role of humility in confidence (and why it’s often misunderstood)If you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally go all in on your business, this is it!See the Full Show Notes👉 Want to work with Annabelle?Work with AnnabelleInstagram || Spotify || YouTube

Brand Storytelling for Impact || How to Tell a Better Story Brand storytelling is important for any business - after all, you're always telling a story, but you can always tell a better one. For any business, being able to clearly communicate impact is crucial for growth. But how do you build a compelling case that showcases your value in a way that resonates with potential customers, clients, or funders? That’s exactly what we’re diving into in this episode of The Wide Open Podcast with Emily Taylor, Principal of teenyBIG. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Why storytelling is essential for business growth and how to communicate impact effectively. How to gather and use client insights to shape your messaging—even if you’re just starting out. The core elements of a strong story: Context, Approach, Action, Impact, and Opportunity. How to tell a compelling story even when you don’t have all the traditional elements. Actionable steps for creating your own Case for Support to strengthen your brand messaging. If you struggle with making your value clear to potential customers or clients, applying the principles of a Case for Support can help. By listening to your audience, identifying key patterns, and structuring your messaging with impact, you can create a business narrative that resonates deeply and drives action. Want to learn more? Emily is offering a free white paper on Telling Stories with Substance. Download it here! FIND EMILY ONLINE:TeenyBig WebsiteConnect with Emily on LinkedIn See the full show notes...

Using Stories to Connect || Learn Storytelling for Small Business In this episode of The Wide Open Podcast, I’m joined by Jessica, a brand story strategist who helps impact-driven entrepreneurs use storytelling to build authentic connections. We discuss the power of personal stories, how to choose the right ones to share, and why they matter for your business. What You’ll Learn: Jessica’s unconventional journey to entrepreneurship The impact of storytelling on your audience Tips for improving your storytelling skills Advice for choosing stories that align with your brand Links & Resources: Jessica's Website || Instagram || Made for More Community See the full show notes...

Balancing the demands of running a business and being a present mom is no easy feat. In this episode, Kellyn shares her journey as a mompreneur—navigating the challenges of motherhood, setting boundaries, and growing her business authentically while staying true to her values. Kellyn opens up about her current season of life and business, sharing practical tips, hard-earned lessons, and strategies that have helped her protect time for her family and her entrepreneurial dreams. We also dive into her take on hustle culture and the mindset shifts that have allowed her to thrive. If you’re a mompreneur or a creative balancing motherhood and business, this conversation will feel like a heart-to-heart chat with a friend who truly gets it. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Kellyn’s journey to becoming a wedding and lifestyle photographer How she manages the balance between business and motherhood The hardest and easiest seasons of blending these roles Tips for setting boundaries and finding time for what matters most Thoughts on hustle culture and redefining success as a mompreneur Kellyn’s advice for making life and work feel more aligned ⁠Get the full show notes...

When was the last time you took a hard look at your branding? If it’s been a while, this episode is for you! Branding is more than just visuals—it’s about building trust, connecting with your audience, and sharing your values. When your branding is off, your business can feel out of sync and may even hold you back from growth. In this episode, I’m breaking down three clear signs your brand needs a refresh: Your branding doesn’t match your current business. Your branding isn’t attracting the right clients. Your branding feels inconsistent. We’ll dive into examples, questions to help you assess your brand, and practical tips to get back on track. Plus, don’t miss details about my free branding class—available now for a limited time! FREE BRANDING CLASS:Join my free branding class and learn how to create an intentional, cohesive brand that builds trust and sparks creativity. Sign up at businesscoachsylvia.com/brandingclass before it becomes a paid offer in March 2025! Resources Mentioned: Free Branding Class Connect with me on Instagram: @businesscoachsylvia Subscribe to The Wide Open Podcast so you never miss an episode! Next Episode:We’ll be talking with Kellyn Oftedahl about balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship—the good, the bad, and the beautiful. Follow the show to be notified when it drops! Get the full show notes...

2025 is here, and it’s time to take your creative business to the next level! In this episode of Wide Open, I’m sharing 10 actionable ideas to help you grow your business, achieve your goals, and avoid burnout. Whether you’re refining your brand, improving your mindset, or focusing on strategy, these tips are designed to empower you to thrive as a creative entrepreneur. 🎉 Plus, I’m introducing an exciting free branding class you won’t want to miss—perfect for starting the year with a cohesive, intentional brand. Read or watch it instead! Here’s what you’ll learn: How to set clear, values-aligned goals. Why boundaries are essential for creativity and avoiding burnout. The impact of strong branding and how to achieve it. The power of professional brand photography. Tips to overcome mindset blocks like imposter syndrome. How prioritizing your health boosts creativity. The importance of focus and doing less for better results. Creating a smart business strategy for sustainable growth. How batching and scheduling content saves time and energy. Why self-compassion is key to long-term success. Resources Mentioned: 📢 FREE Branding Class: The Intentional Brand Blueprint 💻 Updating your website to match your brand? Check out these resources. 🎡 Get solid on your goals with the Wheel of Life. 🦋 Ready for personalized support? Book a coaching discovery call. Next Week’s Episode: Don’t miss "3 Signs Your Brand Needs a Refresh" with actionable tips, journal prompts, and examples to take your brand to the next level. Hit Follow to stay updated! Get in touch on Instagram.

We're diving into a powerful goal-setting tool: the Wheel of Life template. If you’ve felt stuck, lost, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone—and today’s episode is here to help you get clear, focused, and ready to take action in the areas that matter most. In this episode, we’ll walk you through creating and using the Wheel of Life to evaluate where you currently stand across key areas, like health, relationships, and career. Once we’ve mapped it out, you’ll be able to identify which parts of your life could use a boost and set intentional, relevant goals for the upcoming year. Get Your Wheel of Life Template Key Takeaways for Life Inventory || Setting Goals with the Wheel of Life What is the Wheel of Life? Learn how this practical tool can provide a visual snapshot of your life, helping you to pinpoint where things feel off. Personal Evaluation Exercise: You’ll be guided step-by-step to score areas like mental health, relationships, and financial growth on a scale from 1-10. Where are you thriving? Where is there room for improvement? Setting Actionable Goals: Focus on the lowest-rated areas of your Wheel. We’ll discuss achievable goals for each section, from creating a self-care plan for mental health to establishing regular “date nights” to strengthen romantic connections. Complete your Wheel of Life, set goals in your lowest three areas, and tag @businesscoachsylvia on Instagram to share your journey! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris See the full show notes...

In this episode, I’m joined by Hannah, a social media expert, photographer, and CEO of Sunny Social Collective. Hannah is passionate about helping creators, dreamers, and makers grow their businesses through social media. With years of experience working with photographers and small business owners, she’s the perfect person to talk to about growth—especially for those who feel lost on what to post or how to use platforms like Instagram effectively. Hannah shares her journey from small-town girl to CEO, how she fell in love with social media, and why she believes it’s not just a silly app but a powerful tool for changing lives. We dive deep into content creation, consistency, and how to overcome the mindset blocks that often hold people back from growing online. Here's what you have to look forward to: Hannah’s journey into social media management and coaching Why Instagram is her go-to - and why it might not be yours! How to create content when you don’t know where to start Debunking the myth that social media “just doesn’t work” The mindset and practical shifts needed for social media growth FIND HANNAH ONLINE:Sunny Social Collective@sunnysocialcollectiveInstagram See the full show notes...

In this episode, Sylvia V. dives deep into the abundance and scarcity mindsets that shape our lives and businesses—scarcity versus abundance. Ever felt like there’s never enough to go around? Money, time, clients, success—it can all feel limited. Sylvia breaks down the origins of the scarcity mindset, revealing how it often comes from family or environment, regardless of your background. But here’s the twist: an abundance mindset is also contagious and can be learned! Key Takeaways: Do the Math: Get clear on what you really need by calculating your financial and time goals. This clarity can lessen stress and help you feel in control. Talk the Talk: Imagine what success looks and feels like. Visualizing your wins, whether it’s booking those high-ticket weddings or steady client flow, helps you step into an abundant mindset. Spend It Wisely: Invest in your business and yourself—time, money, and energy. Sylvia offers practical ways to reinvest without breaking the bank, emphasizing mindful spending on things that uplift and inspire you. These are just a few of the steps toward embracing abundance. Remember, mental shifts and tangible actions go hand-in-hand. Ready to take your mindset to the next level? If you’re ready to level up, shed limiting beliefs, and get expert guidance, Sylvia has coaching spots open. Head to businesscoachsylvia.com to schedule a call today! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris See the full show notes...

How to Level Up Your Consultations & Discovery Call Script In this episode of Wide Open, Sylvia dives into a personal sales experience that went terribly wrong. After reaching out to a local organization about becoming a member, Sylvia found herself face-to-face with a salesperson who seemed determined to fail at every turn. Instead of their discovery call script providing the information and value needed to make an informed decision, the salesperson's approach left Sylvia with more questions than answers—and ultimately, she ended up spending less with them than she normally would have. Tune in as Sylvia breaks down exactly what went wrong in this sales interaction and what the salesperson could have done differently. Whether you're running a consultation for wedding photography or having casual chats about your offer on social media, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Learn how to ensure your potential clients feel informed, valued, and ready to say "yes." What You’ll Learn: The key missteps that ruined this sales experience. How to sell higher ticket items by understanding and meeting customer needs. Practical tips to ensure your sales approach is effective without feeling icky. Share this episode with your business bestie! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE: businesscoachsylvia.com/podcast ⁠Instagram: ⁠@businesscoachsylvia⁠ Facebook: ⁠@businesscoachsylvia⁠ Pinterest: ⁠@thesylviadamaris⁠ ⁠Click here to view the full show notes...

Get clear on your goals, craft a strategy that sparks creativity, and build the confidence to create a life-giving business. Welcome to The Wide Open Podcast! 🎉 If you’re a photographer or creative entrepreneur looking to grow your business, find clarity, and unlock your confidence, you’re in the right place. In this short trailer episode, Sylvia shares: What The Wide Open Podcast is all about. How this show can help you set aligned goals, overcome mindset challenges, and craft a thriving business you love. A sneak peek into topics like branding, marketing, strategy, and mindset shifts that will empower your journey. Ready to stop spinning your wheels and start making progress? Tune in, hit FOLLOW, and get ready for actionable tips, inspiring stories, and everything you need to build a business that feels as good as it looks. 🎧 Follow now and join a community of creatives ready to turn their big dreams into bold results. Your next breakthrough is just one episode away. FIND SYLVIA ONLINE: businesscoachsylvia.com Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

In this episode, Sylvia V. dives deep into the mindsets that shape our lives and businesses—scarcity versus abundance. Ever felt like there’s never enough to go around? Money, time, clients, success—it can all feel limited. Sylvia breaks down the origins of the scarcity mindset, revealing how it often comes from family or environment, regardless of your background. But here’s the twist: an abundance mindset is also contagious and can be learned! Do the Math: Get clear on what you really need by calculating your financial and time goals. This clarity can lessen stress and help you feel in control. Talk the Talk: Imagine what success looks and feels like. Visualizing your wins, whether it’s booking those high-ticket weddings or steady client flow, helps you step into an abundant mindset. Spend It Wisely: Invest in your business and yourself—time, money, and energy. Sylvia offers practical ways to reinvest without breaking the bank, emphasizing mindful spending on things that uplift and inspire you. These are just a few of the steps toward embracing abundance. Remember, mental shifts and tangible actions go hand-in-hand. Ready to take your mindset to the next level? If you’re ready to level up, shed limiting beliefs, and get expert guidance, Sylvia has just five Q1 coaching spots open starting in January. Head to businesscoachsylvia.com to schedule a call today! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris See the full show notes...

Ever wondered what it’s really like to work with a business coach? In this episode, Sylvia V shares her firsthand experience, from navigating the unknowns of her first coaching session to the tangible impact it’s had on her business over time. Sylvia discusses the overwhelm she felt early on in her journey, balancing a successful business with a desire to attract more ideal clients, raise her prices, and truly express her authentic self online. If you’ve been curious about what to expect from business coaching or how it might transform your work, this episode is for you! What to Expect from Coaching – From setting goals to mindset work, accountability, and actionable steps tailored to your needs, Sylvia explains how business coaching goes beyond quick fixes to lay a foundation for lasting growth. Do You Really Need a Coach? – While you can go it alone, coaching provides clarity, focus, and perspective, offering tools you can apply for years. Sylvia describes the rewards of investing in coaching and how it often costs less than common business expenses, like bookkeeping. What Coaching Isn’t – Sylvia highlights the need for commitment. While coaching offers guidance and resources, you have to be ready to do the work. Building a Relationship That Lasts – Sylvia emphasizes the connection she builds with clients, creating a supportive partnership that often grows into a long-lasting friendship. If you’re ready to level up, shed limiting beliefs, and get expert guidance, Sylvia has just five Q1 coaching spots open starting in January. Head to businesscoachsylvia.com to schedule a call today! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Read the full show notes...

Welcome to episode 18 of the Wide Open Podcast, where we're diving into a powerful goal-setting tool: the Wheel of Life template. If you’ve felt stuck, lost, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone—and today’s episode is here to help you get clear, focused, and ready to take action in the areas that matter most. Wheel of Life Template In this episode, we’ll walk you through creating and using the Wheel of Life to evaluate where you currently stand across key areas, like health, relationships, and career. Once we’ve mapped it out, you’ll be able to identify which parts of your life could use a boost and set intentional, relevant goals for the upcoming year. What is the Wheel of Life? Learn how this practical tool can provide a visual snapshot of your life, helping you to pinpoint where things feel off. Personal Evaluation Exercise: You’ll be guided step-by-step to score areas like mental health, relationships, and financial growth on a scale from 1-10. Where are you thriving? Where is there room for improvement? Setting Actionable Goals: Focus on the lowest-rated areas of your Wheel. We’ll discuss achievable goals for each section, from creating a self-care plan for mental health to establishing regular “date nights” to strengthen romantic connections. Complete your Wheel of Life, set goals in your lowest three areas, and tag @businesscoachsylvia on Instagram to share your journey! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Click for the full show notes...

Are you making the right investments for your business? In this episode, I’m diving into the four key ways to invest—equipment, tools, education, and mentorship—that have shaped my seven-year journey in the industry. Spoiler: the best investment isn't necessarily the newest gadget! Join me as I share my hard-earned insights and tips to ensure your investments fuel sustainable growth and help you thrive. Why Equipment Isn’t EverythingPhotographers, this one's for you: while new tech can be tempting, it might not be the best use of your resources—especially early on. Listen in to find out why being a "late adopter" could actually work in your favor, and how to make the most of what you already own. Choosing the Right ToolsBefore jumping into a new subscription or tool, ask yourself: does it solve a recurring problem? Does it save time or money? Discover some of my favorite time-saving tools (and grab discount codes at businesscoachsylvia.com/resources). Investing in EducationNot sure if that course or book is worth the cost? I’ll share how I decide what’s valuable—and why finding the right teacher is key. The Value of MentorshipMentorship isn’t for everyone, but it’s been a game-changer for me. Learn why personalized guidance can be priceless when you're stuck, lost, or ready to level up, and how to know if it’s the right investment for you. And don’t forget: Q1 2025 coaching spots are open! Ready to start 2025 strong? Let’s make it happen together! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris See the full show notes...

In this episode of Wide Open, we're diving deep into a crucial topic for photographers and creatives—how to create an effective sales funnel. Many entrepreneurs make the same mistakes when promoting their business, from vague, non-sales captions to overly pushy pitches or hidden, half-hearted attempts to sell. This episode breaks down how to avoid these pitfalls by understanding and using a sales funnel to meet your potential clients where they are in their buying journey. We explore the three main stages of the funnel: Top of the Funnel: Where awareness is key, and potential clients discover you. Content like social media videos, blog posts (with SEO), podcasts, and collaborations help capture attention. Middle of the Funnel: This is where interest grows, and your audience begins engaging with your content. Think of social media posts, email lists, free offers, and webinars designed to deepen their connection with you. Bottom of the Funnel: When your audience is ready to make a decision, this is where your service pages, discovery calls, and free trials come into play to convert them into paying clients. By the end of this episode, you’ll rethink how to structure your content for each stage of the funnel and understand why a strategic sales funnel is essential for turning followers into clients. Grab a pen and get ready for some actionable insights! Avoid Common Mistakes: Many creatives either don't sell at all, oversell, or hide weak sales pitches. To succeed, align your content with where your audience is in the buying journey. Understand the Sales Funnel: The funnel has three stages—Top (awareness), Middle (interest), and Bottom (conversion)—each with a specific type of content to share. Top of the Funnel (Awareness): Use content like social media videos, blog posts, podcasts, and collaborations to increase visibility and attract new potential clients. Middle of the Funnel (Interest): Nurture your audience with engaging social media posts, free offers, email lists, and webinars to build trust and deepen the connection. Bottom of the Funnel (Conversion): When your audience is ready to buy, direct them to your service pages, discovery calls, and free trials to close the sale. Tailor Your Content: Each stage of the funnel has a different goal—awareness, information gathering, and ultimately conversion. Make sure your content strategy reflects these goals. FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylvia Facebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Full show notes here...

In this episode of Wide Open, we dive into the world of creativity with Linda Fabry, an intuitive artist known for her divination art, Paintgazing, and her captivating Windows to the Soul portraits. With over 23 years of experience as a public artist, Linda blends transpersonal psychology, metaphysics, and spirituality into her creative process. Together, we explore the creative process and tapping into your creative energy. Linda walks us through the meaning of creativity and who can exercise their creativity. She even takes us through crazy cool exercise that helps bypass our mental defenses to uncover deeper insights about ourselves. Whether you're a seasoned artist or someone who believes they aren't creative at all, this episode will inspire you to rethink the flow between inspiration and creation. Key Takeaways: Creativity is universal: Linda emphasizes that creativity isn’t just about making art—it's about problem-solving, thinking outside the box, and expressing yourself in everyday life. Tapping into your creativity: Whether or not you see yourself as a creative person, Linda offers tips for accessing creative flow, including the importance of play and curiosity. Overcoming blocks: We explore common creative blocks, like fear of failure or perfectionism, and how to work through them. Preferential shapes exercise: Linda walks us through an exercise that helps bypass defense mechanisms, allowing us to better understand our strengths, goals, and motivations. This episode will inspire you to see creativity as a tool for personal growth and transformation, no matter your field. Click here for the full show notes...

Have you ever been ghosted by a potential client? It's frustrating and leaves you wondering what went wrong. In this solo episode, I dive into the real reasons why clients ghost and break down the common misconceptions we have about it. Spoiler: It's not because they don't like you! I'll also share a personal story from when I first worked with a business coach and learned the power of confidence in booking clients. Whether you're a photographer or any other service provider, this episode will help you understand why ghosting happens and how you can stand firm in your awesomeness to prevent it. Why You Should Listen: If you've ever dealt with price shoppers or been ghosted by a potential client, this episode is for you. Learn why clients ghost (hint: it’s not personal!). Find out how shifting your language and confidence can change the entire booking process. Get actionable tips on how to "assume the sale" and communicate with your clients as if they've already booked. FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:businesscoachsylvia.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Find the full show notes here...

Date: September 25, 2024Podcast Title: The Sylvia VandeSlunt PodcastEpisode 12: How to Grow Your Social Media & Attract Clients In this episode, I’m joined by Hannah, a social media expert, photographer, and CEO of Sunny Social Collective. Hannah is passionate about helping creators, dreamers, and makers grow their businesses through social media. With years of experience working with photographers and small business owners, she’s the perfect person to talk to about growth—especially for those who feel lost on what to post or how to use platforms like Instagram effectively. Hannah shares her journey from small-town girl to CEO, how she fell in love with social media, and why she believes it’s not just a silly app but a powerful tool for changing lives. We dive deep into content creation, consistency, and how to overcome the mindset blocks that often hold people back from growing online. Here's what you have to look forward to: Hannah’s journey into social media management and coaching Why Instagram is her go-to - and why it might not be yours! How to create content when you don’t know where to start Debunking the myth that social media “just doesn’t work” The mindset and practical shifts needed for social media growth FIND HANNAH ONLINE:Sunny Social Collective@sunnysocialcollectiveInstagram LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS COACHING & CONSULTING:sylviadamaris.com/business-coach⁠ FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylvia

Date: September 18, 2024Podcast Title: The Sylvia VandeSlunt PodcastEpisode 11: Maintaining Your Identity in Business While Learning from the Best In this episode of The Sylvia VandeSlunt Podcast, I'm diving into a topic that's been on my mind as I navigate a course I'm currently taking. This course, focused on marketing to the high-end wedding market, has some valuable insights, but not everything being taught aligns with who I am or how I want to show up in the world. I'm not here to throw shade or discredit the educator—I'm just reflecting on the challenges of applying strategies that don’t quite fit my style. If you're curious about the course, feel free to DM me on Instagram @businesscoachsylvia, and we can chat more about it! What You’ll Learn: Understand the limitations of one-size-fits-all education. How to maintain the authenticity of your brand & avoid becoming a miniature version of your educator. How to assess whether or not a strategy is for you. Using effort, reversibility, and time commitment as markers for how and when to apply new strategies. Experimentation and modification of strategies to align with your brand. Share this episode with your course buddy! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS COACHING & CONSULTING:sylviadamaris.com/business-coach⁠ FREE RESOURCES:⁠⁠100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog Post SEO Checklist⁠ Read the full show notes...

Date: September 11, 2024Podcast Title: The Sylvia VandeSlunt PodcastEpisode 10: No Fluff Success Mindset Techniques That Will Transform Your Business Dustin M. is one of the realest humans I've ever met. She's raw, honest, fun, and wildly successful. Join us as we explore the concept of mindset, the role it plays in success, and how you can harness its power to manifest the life and business you desire. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration that will help you shift your mindset and elevate your business to the next level. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The importance of mindset in business and how it influences your success. Practical tips for shifting your mindset to align with your goals. How mindset and manifestation are interconnected, and how to use both to your advantage. Common mindset roadblocks entrepreneurs face and how to overcome them. A fresh perspective on humility that could transform your approach to life and business. FIND DUSTIN ONLINE:Dustin M CoachingThe And Life Podcast@dustinmushinskiInstagram || Facebook LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS COACHING & CONSULTING:sylviadamaris.com/business-coach⁠ FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Read the full show notes...

Date: September 4, 2024Podcast Title: The Sylvia VandeSlunt PodcastEpisode 09: How to Level Up Your Consultations & Discovery Call Script In this episode of The Sylvia VandeSlunt Podcast, Sylvia dives into a personal sales experience that went terribly wrong. After reaching out to a local organization about becoming a member, Sylvia found herself face-to-face with a salesperson who seemed determined to fail at every turn. Instead of their discovery call script providing the information and value needed to make an informed decision, the salesperson's approach left Sylvia with more questions than answers—and ultimately, she ended up spending less with them than she normally would have. Tune in as Sylvia breaks down exactly what went wrong in this sales interaction and what the salesperson could have done differently. Whether you're running a consultation for wedding photography or having casual chats about your offer on social media, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Learn how to ensure your potential clients feel informed, valued, and ready to say "yes." What You’ll Learn: The key missteps that ruined this sales experience. How to sell higher ticket items by understanding and meeting customer needs. Practical tips to ensure your sales approach is effective without feeling icky. Share this episode with your business bestie! FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Click here to view the full show notes...

Starting a business can be overwhelming, and having practical, actionable advice can make the journey less daunting and more successful. Sylvia’s passion for helping others grow their businesses shines through, offering valuable support to those in their first years of entrepreneurship. In this episode, Sylvia shares essential advice for new business owners, drawing from her own experiences and the guidance she's provided to friends and family. She offers nine key pieces of advice that she would give to her younger sister if she were starting a business. LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS COACHING & CONSULTING:⁠ sylviadamaris.com/business-coach⁠⁠ FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris FREE RESOURCES:⁠⁠100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog Post SEO Checklist⁠ Click here to view the show notes...

Date: August 21, 2024Podcast Title: The Sylvia VandeSlunt PodcastEpisode 07: How to Protect Client Files: Why Do SD Cards Get Corrupted & How to Stop It In this episode of The Sylvia VandeSlunt Podcast, Sylvia dives into a topic that is crucial yet often overlooked by photographers: protecting client files. Sylvia, a wedding and branding photographer with a background in electrical engineering, brings her unique expertise in electronics, data storage, and even quantum physics to help photographers safeguard their precious work. But don't worry - you won't need a degree to understand what we talk about in this episode. 20% off Cloudspot (photo storage) 00:00 … Introduction03:10 … How Corruption Happens04:30 … How to Manage Your SD Cards09:40 … Why Your External Hard Drives Keep Breaking (and how to fix it)11:29 … Getting Creative When Low on Memory Space12:23 … How to Manage Your External Hard Drives13:46 … How to Protect Your Client Files & My System16:50 … Do You Really Need to Eject Hardware?18:49 … How to Get Started If This Is a Lot FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Click here for full show notes...

Date: August 14, 2024Podcast Title: The Sylvia VandeSlunt PodcastEpisode 06: How to Grow a Business from Ground Zero with Kelly Northlee In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Kelly Northlee, a real estate broker, marketing agency CEO, and host of the Fondy Famous Podcast. When Kelly moved back home to Wisconsin after spending six years in Mississippi, she realized she would need to remember how to grow a business from the ground up. Instead of giving in to the challenges, Kelly embraced them, growing her business at an astonishing pace and building a thriving community of local business owners. 00:00 … Introduction04:10 … Building & Moving the Marketing Agency05:34 … Challenges & Strategies in Moving the Real Estate Business07:27 … How Long Does It Take to Grow a Business?10:25 … Preparing to Move Across the Country14:00 … Being a Disruptor & Facing Negativity Online21:17 … Using Your Business to Grow Together24:12 … Biggest Roadblocks 2 Years Later25:33 … Advice, Regrets, and Hopes for the Future28:21 … Tips for Growing a Business from Ground Zero FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris Click here for the full show notes...

Date: August 7, 2024Podcast Title: The Sylvia VandeSlunt PodcastEpisode 05: What Should I Put on My "About Me" Page? (it's not that you like coffee) Did you know that the about page is the SECOND MOST-VISITED PAGE AFTER THE HOME PAGE on most websites? Why? Why are people so eager to learn about the face behind what they’re thinking about buying? If you’ve been in business longer than 2 seconds, you’ve probably heard someone talk about the “know, like, trust” factor. Before they buy, clients need to know you exist. Then they need to like you. Then they need to trust you. That didn’t come out of thin air. It’s just a description of consumer behavior, not some magic strategy that someone came up with. If they’re on your home page, they now know you exist, and if they’re going to go deeper, they need to LIKE YOU. That’s where the about page comes in. 00:00 … Introduction01:50 … What the About Me Page Is For03:06 … Pretend We're at a Dinner Party04:08 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 106:12 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 209:09 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 309:29 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 410:56 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 511:14 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 611:24 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 712:11 … The About Me Page Formula: Part 8 LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS COACHING & CONSULTING:sylviadamaris.com/business-coach⁠ FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris FREE RESOURCES:⁠⁠100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog Post SEO Checklist⁠ Click here for the full show notes.

What is success in business? How do you define success? Defining success for yourself can be tricky, and that’s what we’re exploring in this conversation. Amanda Steinhauer is the owner, lead photographer, and creative director of Amanda Steinhauer Photography. She has been serving soul-filled, madly-in-love romantics with instantly nostalgic images for over 10 years. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 … Introduction 03:08 … How Amanda Got Started in Wedding Photography 08:38 … Hitting Burnout 11:36 … Redefining Success & Setting Boundaries 18:18 … How to Visualize Your Commitments 24:07 … Stop Comparing & Start Living 25:33 … Defining Success for Yourself 31:47 … Journal Prompts for Defining Success 35:44 … The Best Advice FIND AMANDA ONLINE: Instagram: @amandasteinhauer⁠ www.amandasteinhauer.com LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS COACHING & CONSULTING: sylviadamaris.com/business-coach⁠ FIND SYLVIA ONLINE: sylviadamaris.com/podcast Instagram: @businesscoachsylvia Facebook: @businesscoachsylvia Pinterest: @thesylviadamaris FREE RESOURCES:⁠⁠ 100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing⁠⁠⁠⁠ Blog Post SEO Checklist⁠ Click here for full show notes…

We all know that feeling… staring at the blinking cursor with absolutely nothing in your mind. Putting content out on social media can feel really hard, which is why so few people are consistent with it. All the big accounts are preaching consistency, sharing strategies… and all that is great. We need it. What I don’t see much of is content on how to create content. And I see people screaming for it. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 … Introduction 03:04 … Reason #1: You don’t think anyone wants to hear from you 04:22 … Reason #2: You’re putting too much pressure on it / overthinking it  04:56 … Reason #3: You’re posting too much (you’re burned out)  05:44 … Reason #4: You don’t want to sound salesy 06:27 … Reason #5: You don’t have anything going on 07:47 … Reason #6: You’re trying to base your content on the photo 09:34 … Reason #7: You’re thinking about the algorithm instead of the audience 10:54 … Reason #8: You’re not making space for creativity 12:22 … Reason #9: You’re still not using a scheduler??? LINKS 100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing Later (social media scheduling platform) FIND SYLVIA ONLINE: sylviadamaris.com/podcast Instagram: @businesscoachsylvia Facebook: @businesscoachsylvia Pinterest: @thesylviadamaris FREE RESOURCES: ⁠⁠100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Blog Post SEO Checklist⁠ Click here for full show notes…

Meredith Mutza is a Wisconsin-based wedding, family, and senior photographer. After her work as a Speech-Language Pathologist left her feeling burned out in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Meredith launched full time into photography.  Together with her husband, Mark, they are no stranger to big transitions in business. They recently welcomed their first daughter Amelia, which brings us to this conversation.  I had the honor of meeting and working with Meredith when I was in the middle of my own big transition into being a mom and business owner. Today, we’re diving into the blessings, the challenges, and the totally unexpected right-hooks that come with this rollercoaster of a journey. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 … Introduction to Meredith Mutza 04:33 … Making the Leap to Full Time Photographer 07:53 … Work Life Balance Before & After Motherhood 11:36 … Raising Your Prices 13:10 … Transitioning to Motherhood 16:14 … Utilizing Your Time Like a Mother 21:10 … If You’re Thinking about Starting a Family 25:10 … Our Kids Will Know Better 28:53 … Getting Help Where You Need It 34:55 … Who Is Meredith? FIND MEREDITH ONLINE Instagram: @meredithmutzaphotography https://meredithmutza.com/ LEARN MORE ABOUT BUSINESS COACHING & CONSULTING: sylviadamaris.com/business-coach FIND SYLVIA ONLINE:sylviadamaris.com/podcastInstagram: @businesscoachsylviaFacebook: @businesscoachsylviaPinterest: @thesylviadamaris FREE RESOURCES: ⁠100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing⁠ ⁠Blog Post SEO Checklist Click here to view full show notes...

"We are social, little critters and copying each other, conforming, imitating - that's how we're built. It's not necessarily a bad thing. It's how we learn and bond and create society. In business, though, it gets tricky, right? You have to play the game a little in order to find success. But then success is often defined for you. The path is defined for you." "Let's define authenticity for ourselves. And honestly, if you're a journaler, you might want to write this down as journal prompts for later. So - authentic business owner, authentic person. This is how we're defining it..." Get your journal ready! "...And you do not change anything for anyone else unless you want to, unless it aligns with your values, unless it aligns with your boundaries and your identity." FIND SYLVIA ONLINE: sylviadamaris.com/podcast Instagram: @businesscoachsylvia Facebook: @businesscoachsylvia Pinterest: @thesylviadamaris FREE RESOURCES: 100 Prompts for Social Media Marketing Blog Post SEO Checklist Click here for full show notes…