Christina Talks Podcast

In this episode, Christina delves into the critical topic of content marketing, addressing why many businesses struggle to see results from their efforts. Drawing from her recent blog post, "Why Content Marketing Isn't Working and How to Fix It," she emphasizes the importance of having a clear content strategy aligned with business goals. Christina discusses common pitfalls, such as creating content for the sake of consistency and over-reliance on AI tools, which can dilute the human touch in marketing. She offers actionable insights on setting clear objectives, understanding the target audience, maintaining consistent messaging, and diversifying content formats. KEY TAKEAWAYS Content marketing without a clear strategy is likely to fail. It's essential to align content creation with business goals and audience needs to avoid creating content for the sake of it. Utilizing a mix of content formats—such as blogs, videos, podcasts, and infographics—can help reach different segments of the audience and keep the messaging fresh and engaging. Outsourcing can be a valuable strategy for businesses that struggle with content creation. It allows access to expertise and creative insights, freeing up time to focus on core business activities. Establishing specific objectives for content marketing efforts and regularly measuring performance is crucial. This helps identify what resonates with the audience and allows for optimization of future content. Maintaining consistent messaging across all platforms is vital for building brand recognition and trust. Businesses should focus on a few core messages that clearly communicate their value and address audience pain points. BEST MOMENTS "Content marketing without a strategy is essentially a recipe for failure." "If you are just putting content out there to tick those boxes, then it ends up becoming a bit scattergun." "Outsourcing allows you to access people like me, the people that are in this every day, seeing what works, what doesn't." "Every bit of content should serve a purpose. It should be intentional." "Content marketing isn't working for many businesses because they're focusing on producing content, not the strategy behind it." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina engages in a thought-provoking conversation with behaviour specialist Andy Baker. They explore the complexities of behaviour management, particularly in the context of neurodiversity, and how understanding behaviour as a form of communication can transform interactions in both personal and professional settings. Andy shares his extensive experience in the health and social care sector, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the need to approach behaviour with curiosity rather than judgment.   KEY TAKEAWAYS All Behavior is Communication: It is crucial to understand that behaviour, whether it's a child acting out or an adult struggling, is a form of communication. Be a Detective, Not a Judge: Instead of jumping to conclusions about someone's behaviour, it's important to investigate the reasons behind it. The Importance of Self-Esteem: Many individuals, especially those who are neurodivergent, may struggle with self-esteem due to repeated negative feedback about their behaviour. Understanding Neurodiversity: Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD, may process information and respond to situations differently. Flexibility in Expectations: It's vital to adjust expectations based on an individual's developmental level rather than their chronological age.   BEST MOMENTS "The general premise is that all behavior is communication. I'm telling you something; I may not like the language you're using, but I'm communicating that at least I'm not happy." "Your response is your responsibility, right? Because we're the adults in that situation." "If I look at something like ADHD, one of the analogies I love for understanding attentiveness is like the bingo machine analogy. Some individuals with ADHD, their brain is like a bingo machine." "It's almost like I hate it when people say everyone's on the spectrum. I hate when people use the spectrum as an excuse." "If a kid doesn't know how to behave, then we should teach them. But there's still a philosophy there of sometimes punish them."   VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ ABOUT THE HOST Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them! LinkedIn Twitter Website

In this episode of the Christina Talks podcast, Christina delves into the concept of becoming a thought leader and positioning oneself as an expert in their field without coming across as egotistical. She discusses the importance of focusing on the value you bring to clients, highlighting benefits rather than personal accolades, and sharing success stories that build credibility. Christina emphasizes the need for authenticity, defining your niche, and using data to support your insights. By maintaining a genuine passion for helping others and continuously evolving, listeners can effectively position themselves as trusted advisors in their respective industries. Tune in for actionable strategies to enhance your personal brand and attract more business opportunities. KEY TAKEAWAYS Focus on Value and Benefits: Position yourself by emphasising the value you bring to clients and the benefits they receive from your services, rather than boasting about your own achievements. Share Success Stories and Testimonials: Highlight client success stories and let them share their experiences. This builds credibility and trust more effectively than self-promotion. Identify and Address Pain Points: Understand the challenges your target audience faces and provide actionable solutions. This positions you as a problem solver and keeps your audience engaged. Maintain Authenticity: Communicate your passion and care for your work. Authenticity resonates with people and helps build a genuine connection, making them more likely to trust you. Stay Adaptable and Evolve: Continuously learn and adapt to changes in your industry. Share new insights and experiences to keep your messaging relevant and dynamic, reinforcing your position as a knowledgeable expert. BEST MOMENTS "The more we can do this without selling, actually, the more business opportunity comes our way." "Talk about the benefits, not just your own experience. Share the testimonials. Let other people do the talking for you." "Authenticity is about communicating how much you care about something." "If you give them 75% of that solution, you are positioning yourself as the person that has the rest of that answer." "It's the passion that really positions you. And you've got to allow people to see that." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ ABOUT THE HOST Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them! LinkedIn Twitter Website

In this episode, Christina is joined by the dynamic Gary Das, a multifaceted entrepreneur, coach, and mentor with a wealth of experience in financial services. Gary shares his intriguing journey from temporary jobs to becoming a successful mortgage expert and business owner, highlighting the challenges he faced along the way, including the impact of the credit crunch and the importance of personal growth. Gary also discusses his innovative program, "Leads to Lifestyle," which emphasizes achieving balance in business and life through strategic planning and incremental growth.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Recognizing personal responsibility in business challenges is crucial. Acknowledging that one may be the bottleneck in their own business can lead to significant growth and improvement. In industries like financial services, building a personal brand is essential. Clients prefer to connect with individuals rather than faceless companies. Implementing a seasonal structure for business activities can enhance productivity. By aligning tasks with the natural rhythms of the year, entrepreneurs can focus on strategic planning, execution, and reflection at appropriate times. Choosing the right mentor is key to success. It's important to find someone who has relevant experience and can provide actionable insights rather than just theoretical knowledge. Building a strong team with experienced individuals can free up time for entrepreneurs to focus on high-value tasks. Effective delegation is essential for scaling a business and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.   BEST MOMENTS "I realized I was the problem... I can't continue to keep doing this. It must be me." "People still ring up and say, you know, I interviewed Neil Patel... and they expect me to do their SEO." "You need to have a stack of cash to be able to do it because I've bought 100 before and got no sales." "You're not paying me to be nice to you. I will care for you and I will love you, but you're paying me to get a result." "I think balance is one of those really tough things as a business owner and an entrepreneur that is hard to deal with."   VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina shares her thoughts on the importance of recognizing that not everyone wants or needs your help, particularly in the coaching and marketing realms. Drawing from her experiences with coaches, consultants, and business owners, she emphasizes the significance of understanding your audience and targeting the right people with your message. Christina discusses the frustrations that can arise from ineffective marketing efforts and the necessity of focusing on delivering value rather than trying to convert every prospect. With a candid and passionate tone, she encourages listeners to engage in meaningful conversations, listen actively, and prioritize quality over quantity in lead generation. KEY TAKEAWAYS It's important to recognize that not everyone is seeking assistance or coaching at any given moment. Understanding this can help avoid frustration in conversations and marketing efforts. Effective marketing requires knowing your audience and ensuring that your messages are directed at those who genuinely need your services. Conducting market research can help identify the right target group. Focusing on generating a smaller number of highly qualified leads is more beneficial than trying to attract a large volume of unqualified prospects. When creating content or engaging with an audience, prioritize delivering value rather than pushing for conversions. Pay attention to the responses and feedback from your audience. This listening approach allows for a better understanding of their needs and helps tailor your offerings accordingly, rather than imposing solutions they may not want.   BEST MOMENTS "Not everybody wants or needs your help... sometimes it's just not appropriate." "If you talk to everyone, you're talking to no one." "It's about targeting the messages. It's about being realistic when it comes to what we're putting out there." "I'm not hung up on converting everybody into a Christina fan... I do that based on trying to create valuable thinking points." "Start from a place of offering value. Don't try to ram what you're doing down everyone's throats."   VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina is joined by Rebecca Shannon, who identifies herself as the "queen of heart-led leadership." The conversation delves into the essence of heart-led leadership, emphasizing the importance of leading from a place of empathy, vulnerability, and self-awareness. Rebecca shares insights on how to connect with one's inner leadership and make decisions that align with both the heart and gut instincts. They discuss the challenges many face in practising self-love and kindness, highlighting societal beliefs that often label self-care as selfish. The episode also introduces the concept of being a "time warrior," focusing on how individuals can shift their mindset around time management by prioritizing their intentions and setting strong boundaries. KEY TAKEAWAYS Leading from the heart involves connecting with empathy and vulnerability, allowing leaders to inspire and motivate others by being authentic and open. This approach emphasizes that true leadership begins with self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Effective decision-making should involve a holistic approach that includes the mind, heart, and gut. By physically connecting with these areas and seeking alignment among them, individuals can make more informed and heartfelt choices. The concept of being a "Time Warrior" focuses on how individuals can shift their mindset about time management. Instead of relying solely on tools and techniques, it emphasizes the importance of being intentional about priorities and commitments. Many struggle with self-love due to societal beliefs that prioritize caring for others over oneself. Practising self-love is essential for personal well-being and enables individuals to better support those around them Embracing vulnerability is crucial for effective leadership. It allows individuals to connect deeply with others, fostering trust and collaboration. Recognizing and addressing one's own needs is not a sign of weakness but rather a demonstration of strength and self-awareness. BEST MOMENTS "When we drop into our hearts and lead from there, something very different occurs, and we get more from ourselves and our lives than when we come from just up here." "I consider myself to be very much a heart-led leader... I've embraced that part of me that is an empathetic leader." "Our problem is not procrastination. Our problem is priorities. If my heart isn't in something, I haven't prioritized it." "If I love myself, I can love you more. But because we've been taught that that's not true, we love everybody else and then have nothing left for ourselves." "There's this fear of recognizing vulnerability as weakness, where no, it isn't. Recognizing that doing something about it, that is strength."   VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina explores the importance of effectively communicating the experience of working with your business through social media content. She emphasizes the need to balance industry-related insights with the direct promotion of services and products. Christina shares practical strategies for showcasing behind-the-scenes moments, client interactions, and testimonials to build authenticity and trust. She also discusses the value of case studies and educational content in demonstrating expertise and creating emotional connections with potential clients. KEY TAKEAWAYS It's important to balance industry-related content that addresses pain points with content that directly promotes your services or products. Sharing behind-the-scenes insights, such as daily operations and client interactions, can effectively communicate the experience of working with your business. Collecting and sharing testimonials, especially in video format, can enhance credibility and trust. Highlighting client stories and their successes can provide valuable insights to potential clients. Detailed case studies that outline challenges, solutions, and specific services used can demonstrate the effectiveness of your offerings and showcase your problem-solving abilities. Sharing educational content, such as tips and insights, positions you as an expert while also illustrating how your services have positively impacted clients, fostering an emotional connection with your audience. BEST MOMENTS "Testimonials can work really, really well. And I think when you can capture them in that way, where there's a bit of joint value there, that's even more impactful." "It's not just about positioning yourself as an expert. It's not just about selling your stuff. It's about creating an emotional response in people. And let's face it, I would hope you do what you do because you love it." " 'Oh my god, like it actually works, you guys know your shit'. That's a direct quote, by the way." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina interviews Kane Baron, an expert in the world of podcasting and a prolific member of Progressive Media. They discuss the journey of podcasting, the challenges new podcasters face, and how to make a podcast successful. Kane shares his personal experience of transitioning from a law degree to digital marketing and eventually into podcasting. He emphasizes the importance of consistency, building a back catalogue, and engaging with the audience through competitions and giveaways. KEY TAKEAWAYS Building up a back catalog of content is crucial to avoid running out of content and maintain consistency. Tying a relaunch to a specific reason, such as an anniversary or a special event, can help create momentum and interest. Hosting a competition or giveaway related to the podcast's target audience can incentivize listeners to engage and potentially convert into paying customers. YouTube is predicted to become a central platform for podcasts, emphasizing the importance of incorporating video content into podcast strategies. While AI content may be useful in the short term, it is expected to lose effectiveness over time, highlighting the importance of authentic and engaging content creation. BEST MOMENTS "The number one way to monetize it is selling your own stuff. It leads into your business 100%." "Podcast downloads are anonymous, so nobody can see it. So Apple charts is like the UK top 40, right? Every Sunday that you've released your top 40, there's some sort of credibility." "YouTube will be the future of podcasting for sure." "Rob wanted the benefit of the staff and people doing all the hard work and the difficult things with podcasting and social media for him. He just wanted to interview people he found interesting, and he wanted to make a living doing it. And then basically, in comes me, and he was like, oh, cool, you manage these things. And I'll go out on the road and I'll record all these podcasts." "I was struggling to make the time to sit down and record my solo episodes. I kind of, I felt like I'd peaked with guests and I'd had some amazing people on." VALUABLE RESOURCES Kane's Instagram Kane's LinkedIn Email: podcast@progressiveproperty.co.uk Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina considers the power of asking the simple yet impactful question, "What can I do for you?" She emphasizes how this question shifts the focus from oneself to the person being asked, making the conversation more about them. Christina discusses how asking this question in various contexts, such as sales, marketing, and personal relationships, can lead to more personalized and tailored interactions.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Asking "What can I do for you?" is a powerful question that shifts the focus onto the other person, making the conversation about their needs and desires. This question can be used in various contexts, such as sales, marketing, relationships, and even with family members, to show genuine interest in helping and supporting others. By asking this question, one can tailor their services or assistance to meet specific needs, creating a more personalized and impactful interaction. Acting on the answer received from asking this question not only feels good but also demonstrates authenticity and selflessness in helping others. Incorporating this question into conversations can empower the dialogue, create intentional support, and ultimately strengthen relationships and connections. BEST MOMENTS "What can I do for you? It shifts the focus from you to the person you're talking to. It makes the conversation about them." "If someone does something for me, I'm asking, you know, it's one thing to say thank you, but to follow that up with, is there something I can do for you?" "It's massively powerful. Business-wise, asking that question can just empower the whole conversation that you're having and is something I invite you to do." "It's so powerful in terms of building relationships with people, not just your clients, but all of your contacts, even with family members." "It's massively powerful. Business-wise, asking that question can just empower the whole conversation that you're having and is something I invite you to do." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In today's episode, Christina interviews Stewart Roberts, owner of Maia Kai, on the importance of understanding finances in business. Stewart shares his extensive experience in the back office accounts and funding side of recruitment for over 24 years. He highlights the value of non-exec finance advisory services for recruitment agencies and emphasizes the need for directors to have a solid grasp of their financials.  KEY TAKEAWAYS It's crucial for businesses to prioritize understanding their finances from the very beginning. Hiring a non-executive financial director can provide valuable insights and guidance, even for smaller businesses. Monthly management accounts can help businesses stay on top of their numbers and make informed decisions. Outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping, accounting, and IT can be cost-effective and efficient for businesses of all sizes. Accountants should not only provide financial services but also actively help businesses succeed and grow. BEST MOMENTS "I think people think if they get these softwares it's going to actually eliminate the need of their accountant." "I always say to get monthly management accounts. I know a lot of people would say quarterly. I think monthly, really, you've got to know what your numbers are on a month by month basis." "I think that accountability piece is really important, especially in those smaller organisations, when there's no one to have those hard conversations with." "People don't understand things like VAT, corporation tax and things like that, so what they will quite often do is they'll look at their bank account and use that as a judgment on how successful their business is." "I've had some bad luck with accountants, right? And a big part of that was over-reliance on automation by the accountant without something strong enough on my part, as well as theirs, to make sure that where we were relying on automation, that things were getting picked up, checked." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

Today, Christina speaks with Jeff Mask, a CEO coach. Jeff shares his personal experiences and professional insights on leadership, purpose, kindness, and self-awareness. Throughout the episode, Jeff emphasizes the importance of leading with love, being kind to oneself, and understanding that challenges are not as dire as they may seem internally. He also discusses the significance of finding one's purpose and being at peace with the past to create a fulfilling future.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Kindness is not a weakness, but rather a display of abundant strength. It involves clarity, conviction, and love, allowing for difficult conversations and decisions to be made with compassion. Being kind to oneself is crucial for personal growth and well-being. It involves treating oneself with the same compassion and understanding as one would offer to others. Having a clear vision of the future helps in navigating through present challenges and struggles. It provides meaning to the obstacles faced and motivates progress. Leadership and love go hand in hand, with love being a powerful motivator for inspiring growth and change in others. Leading with love fosters trust, confidence, and positive relationships. It's important to remember that things are never as bad as they seem from the inside or as good as they appear from the outside. Every individual and business faces challenges and imperfections, highlighting the importance of self-compassion and perspective. BEST MOMENTS "I love to help CEOs confidently grow their business without losing their mind, losing their priorities, losing their soul." "The more at peace we can be with our past, the more we can create a great future." "Kindness isn't weakness. Kindness is abundant strength." "It's never as bad as it feels from the inside and never as good as it looks from the outside." "Kindness is clarity. Kindness is conviction. Kindness is love." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina shares her insights and experiences on how to secure speaking gigs and grow as a speaker. She refers to the importance of building a personal brand, networking with other speakers, and how this can help create opportunities for oneself. Christina discusses the value of offering unique and valuable content to event organizers, as well as the significance of starting small and gradually moving up to larger stages.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Dedicate time and effort into building a personal brand to attract speaking opportunities. Sometimes you need to create your own speaking opportunities, whether in-person or online, to showcase your expertise. Deliver webinars and create video content to showcase your speaking abilities and attract speaking gigs. Reach out to event organizers, podcast hosts, and other speakers to build relationships and secure speaking opportunities. Begin with smaller speaking engagements and gradually move up to larger stages, investing time and effort in your speaking journey. BEST MOMENTS "I dedicated a lot of time and a lot of effort into building a personal brand. I looked for those opportunities to connect with other speakers, to see where they were speaking, to ask them about their contacts." "Sometimes you need to create your own stages. And again, I put a lot of time and effort into that." "So putting content out there of you on stage, of you presenting a webinar is one thing. Another way you can do this is actually just recording your video content." "Reach out to people with podcasts. Reach out to me. If you think you've got something of value to offer my audience, reach out to me." "Getting on those stages has brought me massive opportunity, has introduced me to some magnificent people and overall has helped me to grow my brand as Christina and also my business brand as well." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina interviews Neville Wright, a successful entrepreneur who started a business with just 37 pence and grew it to a value of £200 million. They discuss Neville's journey, from his struggles with dyslexia and ADHD to building a thriving retail business, Kiddy Care. Neville shares his own insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the importance of creating a positive customer experience. KEY TAKEAWAYS Neville Wright's journey exemplifies the importance of having an entrepreneurial mindset, where he started with just 37 pence and built a business worth millions by saying "yes" to opportunities and challenges. The focus on providing an exceptional customer experience was evident in Neville's approach to retail, where he emphasized creating a welcoming environment, offering assistance, and anticipating customer needs. Neville's emphasis on training and developing his employees, recognizing their individual strengths, and empowering them to take responsibility contributed to the success of his business. The implementation of systematic processes and procedures, from training employees to managing suppliers and customers, played a crucial role in the growth and success of Neville's business. Neville's ability to adapt to changing circumstances, embrace new technologies like online retail, and innovate in response to challenges highlights the importance of flexibility and creativity in business. BEST MOMENTS "I wasn't very good at school. That was one of the main drivers, I think." "Life's not fair. And yeah, so it got to rock bottom and I do think very often people are not low enough in a way or desperate enough to make a difference to their lives." "Forget I can't, focus on I can." "People forget the basics. They go to the seminar and they read the book and they listen to the podcast and they're going through all this shiny stuff and they forget the basics." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina delves into the topic of achieving virality on LinkedIn. She emphasizes the importance of personal content, discussing trending topics, building an engaged network, timing of posts, and utilizing various content formats. Christina provides valuable insights on creating hooks to draw in the audience and shares practical tips for maximizing engagement on the platform.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Share real photos, videos, and passion to connect with your audience on a personal level. Utilize trending stories on LinkedIn and mainstream media to create relevant content that sparks engagement. Connect with individuals who share mutual interests and potential business opportunities to increase engagement. Experiment with posting times to determine when your audience is most active and engaged. Utilize various content formats on LinkedIn, such as text-only posts, videos, carousels, polls, and articles, to keep your audience engaged and interested. BEST MOMENTS "LinkedIn's one of those platforms where people are kind of almost scared of it. And I don't know why, because it's no different to anywhere else." "Personal content is all about real photos, real videos, people seeing the whites of your eyes, the smile on your face, and being able to engage in you in that way." "If you are just constantly connecting, connecting, connecting, connecting with anyone and everyone, you're probably not going to have an engaged network." "Timing is another one as well. Pay attention to the timing that works for you. You will find there's particular times of the day, perhaps, or days of the week, where when you post those moments, that's when you see more engagement happening." "What's that first line of text in that post? What is that caption on that photo? When you are recording your video, what's the first line out of your mouth that people are going to see there?" VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

In this episode, Christina discusses her hiatus and the overwhelming feeling of taking on too much. She reflects on the pressure she felt to keep up with the podcast, her main business, and other ventures, leading to a sense of failure. However, she shares a valuable lesson she learned about looking back at her journey and focusing on the next steps rather than the current obstacles. The host expresses her excitement to be back, ready to share intimate thoughts and insights with her audience. She teases upcoming guests who are either inspirational, motivating, or experts in their fields, promising to deliver valuable content that will resonate with listeners. KEY TAKEAWAYS It's important to recognize when you need a break and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout. Instead of focusing on current challenges, reflect on how far you've come since starting and the successes you've achieved. Break down tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed and maintain a positive mindset. Embrace the freedom of expression and ownership that comes with personal platforms like podcasts to share openly and authentically. Surround yourself with inspirational and motivating individuals who can trigger positive changes and growth in your own journey. BEST MOMENTS "I had not been recording episodes. I'd not been booking in guests. And the weeks had passed where I'd not published a podcast." "I felt like a failure. I felt the worst thing in the world, which was that I felt that I'd let myself down." "I forgot about all those successes. I forgot about the speaking gigs that I was booked for and paid for because someone had heard me on the podcast." "I looked at it as: I've got to record all these episodes. I've got to get all these guests. And that overwhelm just fueled that negative spin I had going on." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ https://twitter.com/christinamc80?lang=en-gb https://www.green-umbrella.biz/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinarobinson2/?originalSubdomain=uk HOST BIO Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them!

Join host Christina as she interviews Martin Mason, a talent and diversity and inclusion specialist. Martin shares how he helps organisations improve their recruitment, talent, and D&I practices. They discuss the difference between diversity initiatives that are tokenistic versus intentional. Martin explains important but not yet mainstream concepts like social mobility and how organizations can remove unnecessary barriers to create more equity. He provides insights on how businesses can foster inclusive cultures through education, seeking diverse perspectives, and focusing on desired outputs. Martin talks about trends like neurodiversity and leveraging different talent pools. He also introduces his company's new tech platform, Talent Mapper, which helps businesses understand their existing workforce capabilities. KEY TAKEAWAYS Don't just do tokenistic activities for diversity - have the intent to create impact. Social mobility is about removing unnecessary hurdles for people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Broaden recruitment outreach beyond top universities to increase diversity. Discuss desired outputs first, then work backwards to build an inclusive recruitment process. Seek perspectives from people different from you when making big decisions. Emerging trends are neurodiversity and tapping into wider talent pools through social mobility. BEST MOMENTS "It's not in the mainstream because people don't realize that they need to take some responsibility to fix this." "You've got to go to the right advisors." "The smart businesses are the ones that are seeing it as a long term investment, because if you can outthink your competition and innovate, then your business is sustainable." "Stay curious and educated. The more that you can keep your mind open and learn, the better it will be." VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ ABOUT THE HOST Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them! LinkedIn Twitter Website

Get ready for a fun and enlightening ride with nutrition guru Dale Pinnock. Dale talks about his decades of experience in the nutrition field, simplifying healthy eating into practical lifelong habits. You'll learn the science behind anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric and oily fish, how certain mushroom extracts can boost brain power, and why quality supplements are key. Dale gets real about the declining state of metabolic health today and how we can start fixing it through proper nutrition education and cooking skills.  Tune in to soak up Dale's expansive wisdom and walk away with simple, doable steps to eating healthier and living your best life! KEY TAKEAWAYS Simplify healthy eating into practical, lifelong habits rather than short-term diets Turmeric, ginger, and oily fish provide potent anti-inflammatory benefits Certain mushroom extracts like lion's mane can enhance cognitive function Quality is critical when choosing supplements for them to work effectively BEST MOMENTS "Quality is critical when choosing supplements for them to work effectively." "Turmeric and oily fish provide a powerful one-two anti-inflammatory punch." "You ask for what you want. Be discerning. Make the effort." "Just write what you wanna write. Otherwise what is the point." VALUABLE RESOURCES The Medicinal Chef Dale Pinnock website Dale Nutrition YouTube Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ ABOUT THE GUEST Dale Pinnock, aka The Medicinal Chef, has been a nutrition expert for over 30 years. With 7 bestselling books and regular TV appearances under his belt, Dale has become a leading voice on simplified, practical health advice. His passion lies in creating lifelong healthy habits and dismantling fad diets. Dale's wisdom comes from hands-on client work, extensive research, and a genuine desire to help people live healthier lives. When he isn't writing or seeing clients, you can find Dale whipping up medicinal recipes packed with science-backed nutrition in his kitchen. ABOUT THE HOST Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them! LinkedIn Twitter Website

“The Shari Teigman” is a  performance coach and creative strategist who works with individuals to unleash their maverick in their life and business through being who they truly are. Shari joins Christina to discuss the vital importance of expressing your true self and why the journey to finding out and understanding who you are, who you have been and who you truly want to be is pivotal in creating your unique life and business and impacting on the world as a unique individual KEY TAKEAWAYS You can get lost in branding but you can also find in it yourself too, and when you ask, ‘Who am I?’ there is a silent inner revolution and the realisation that you can’t be anyone except yourself   If you don’t reconcile internally who you truly are, you can experience imposter syndrome, and struggle to find where you fit in There is justice and rebirth when you face who you think you are, who you’ve been and who you think you want to be  over and over again There is the knowing and there is the habit, when we are expanding into learning how to think differently we are facing our primal habitual self We learn in a state of openness and  do in a state of panic, go mode and excitement, we don’t use the same parts of ourselves Leadership is connection and to connect you need to be vulnerable because you can’t build trust without it No one else lives your life and knows how you feel so why would you ask everyone else’s opinion about what to do next We can’t change anything until we have space and perspective, when you have space you can see the difference and  act differently You go on a ride knowing you have your self-leadership, how to ground yourself, manage your state and who to lean on and how to read your own clues and that all that needed in your toolbox You have to know what you are ready for, who you are and who you want to be before you look for a coach The reason we have those ‘not them’ moments with the wrong mentors is because we are going to be saved by someone but you need to find out what you don’t need, you learn by doing and undoing   BEST MOMENTS 08:00 “Am I going to battle and have balls to survive or am I going to battle and have balls to drive” 11:49 “I’m so vulnerable and messy, I’m human, and I like the relevancy of knowing exactly what my clients feel like on a day-to-day basis” 17:53  “The environment you learn in is not the environment you do in” 35:12 “When we become more rich in our internal world and are intrinsically led all our interest in the world has a better pacing to it”  38:33 “Your greatest growth points are in the buckets you avoid and are not willing to go to on your own” VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ ABOUT THE HOST Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them! LinkedIn Twitter Website

Jennifer Roblin is an anxiety coach, who specifically works with teenagers and young adults. After spending 30 years in the corporate world, Jennifer quit her job, realising her lifestyle wasn’t what she wanted for her and her family.  Jennifer joins Christina to talk about why she changed career and what drove her to work with young people. They also talk about what anxiety is, how it can manifest and how we can become aware of our own beliefs and behaviours and how this impacts others. KEY TAKEAWAYS One of the main things Jennifer enjoyed in her corporate role was big teams of people, she now realises she was coaching these people. Anxiety is evolutionary, the sole purpose of anxiety is to keep us safe, it’s looking for danger all the time. The amount of information we as individuals have to deal with on a day-to-day basis in the modern world is astounding, this can have a profound impact on our levels of anxiety. Jennifer felt she could have the biggest impact coaching those under 25, changing their future but also having a positive impact on those around them including their parents. Jennifer also became more passionate about helping young people when her friends' son took his own life at just 19. There are different types of anxiety, including generalised anxiety disorder which impacts children on an everyday basis. Parents can imprint their own anxieties onto children, leaving a long-lasting impression on them. Children learn these behaviours at an early age and it becomes their identity and who they are. There isn’t a one size fits all approach to coaching people through their anxiety, you have to figure out what motivates that person and what it is they want to achieve. Many of the approaches that Jennifer uses are about individuals realising and recognising their behaviours and what they can do to take control and influence their lives. Try and be more aware of the media you take in, for example with songs, ensure you listen to the lyrics. If we listen to negativity we take it on board. Ask yourself how you are feeling and stop and truly think about what your answer is and the words you use. BEST MOMENTS 04:15 “I realised there is such a job as coaching” 14:25 “Once you’ve proved to yourself you can do it, you can’t ‘unprove’ it” 17:20 “Children are so frustrated they’re venting their anger in the family home” 20:01 “We don’t realise how we are affecting the people around us” 49:20 “I just didn’t have the words to label my emotions” VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ ABOUT THE GUEST Jennifer Roblin | Anxiety Specialist www.betteryourlife.co.uk ABOUT THE HOST Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them! LinkedIn Twitter Website

In this episode, Christina is joined by a woman she relates to on many levels and whom she holds a lot of respect and admiration for, an ‘absolute powerhouse of a woman’ Dawn Willock. Dawn is a business owner who stands for truth and integrity in business. She talks to Christina about why this is important to her, how this translates into her business practices, and why peer support is essential to any entrepreneur or business owner. Dawn also talks about the importance of embracing change in business, why covid had some positive influences, her book writing process and even a story about DMing Russell Brand! KEY TAKEAWAYS Many are fearful of change, but it’s necessary and is often how we make a name for ourselves in business. You have to get out of your comfort zone to make progress. Covid forced change, it pushed some businesses into the modern world. Those who had already implemented change effectively previously had an advantage over those who resisted it. You have to be bold and take chances to become successful, if you don’t try things in the first place then you will certainly fail! You must weigh up the balance between your work and personal life. It’s not worth doing everything 100% at work if your personal life is falling apart. Dawn fell out of love with her business which then impacted her energy, drive and passion which in turn influenced the metrics and health of the business. Your business challenges aren’t unique, you have to be honest and then seek support and help. Masterminds can be invaluable for this. Book writing has been cathartic for Dawn and allowed her to feel joy in new and unique ways. She has written her book for her, if it sells well that’s a great bonus! BEST MOMENTS 02:55 “Be brave, question things, fundamentally I stand for truth and that has been something that’s been a gift” 07:34 “Those who were going to survive, were willing to change or had already changed” 12:40 “From a business perspective, not everybody is on the breadline” 21:40 “That’s where the magic is, where you take 100% responsibility for yourself” 39:20 “Because I’ve given myself something with so much joy you don’t mind the graft of work in the things that you don’t necessarily want to have to do” VALUABLE RESOURCES Christina Talks Podcast https://www.green-umbrella.biz/how-to-launch-anything-using-social-media/ ABOUT THE HOST Christina has been working with SME’s since 2013 to launch, develop and perfect their online presence. In 2019 Christina made the move from employee to business owner of a successful digital marketing agency focused on educating business owners in the use of social media. Christina is driven by the fact that in today’s world, it doesn’t matter how big or small your marketing budget is, you can be a major player. For small businesses, the tools are just as accessible – you just need to know how to use them! LinkedIn Twitter Website