Build Your Copywriting Business

Are you (unintentionally) alienating your audience? Kate and I had the pleasure of sitting down with Comprehensive Copywriting Academy student and bilingual copywriter Ceci and WOW!  This episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast is a masterclass in connecting with your audience in a meaningful way. And Ceci’s story is incredibly inspiring, too. As a Latina copywriter, Ceci notices when copy has been intentionally written for a Spanish-speaking audience … and when it’s been haphazardly translated into English.  And that difference is huge.  When you take the time to authentically connect with your audience, they’re more likely to take the action you want them to take.  When you don’t take the time to connect with your audience? At best, they’ll ignore the message. At worst? They’ll think negatively of the brand. Listen now for pro tips on building deeper connections. ----------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ceci’s LinkedIn ProfileCeci’s Portfolio SiteTop Tips for Wildly Effective PitchingFight These 10 Fears with a Systematic Process Related Links Ep. 40: Empowering BIPOC Businesses as a Black, Hispanic Copywriter – Ashley’s StoryHow Do You Write for Translations? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

When self-doubt is loud, it’s hard to tell whether discomfort is fear or intuition. That’s why learning to tell the difference is so important—in life … and, in this case, copywriting. So, Kate and I figured it was time to share our best tiny-but-effective tips for building trust in your gut. We’re talking about how to trust your instincts both when you’re writing copy and when you’re deciding to take on a client.  The line between resistance and gut instinct can be tricky. So, let’s make sure you have a path for recognizing the difference. ------------------------------ Mentioned in the Episode Ep. BONUS – Laser Coaching: How to (Respectfully) Disagree with a Copywriting ClientHow to Price Copywriting Services: By the Minute? The Hour? The Word?Ep. 163: Are Your Copywriting Prices Leaving Money on the Table?Ep. 76: Red Flags Copywriters Need to Look for in Clients Related Links Fight These 10 Fears with a Systematic Process --------------------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here 

I hope you’re ready for the WEALTH of information Alex is sharing. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, we are beyond lucky that CCA student, former account manager, and current copywriting dynamo Alex is sharing her wisdom from BOTH sides of the agency aisle. On the account side, Alex managed timelines, scopes, and client relationships.  And, lucky us, she’s sharing pro tips for how you can better manage your own timelines, scopes, and relationships to wow clients (and keep your sanity!). As someone who was on one career trajectory for well over a decade, Alex is also sharing what it was like to make a major career pivot into copywriting and how she did it. And, yes, she got to see copy for one of her projects in the bright lights of Times Square. How cool is that?!  --------------------- Mentioned in the Episode Alexandra Angst LinkedInHow to Put Together a Copywriting Portfolio (Even With No Experience)Break Into New Copywriting Industries Using Spec AdsBONUS: Laser Coaching – How to Land Copywriting Work with an Ad Agency --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

If you’re using AI to help you with your copywriting tasks (and I hope you are!), you need to watch this. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, we are SO lucky that the brilliant copywriter and AI expert Amber Smith is back, sharing all her knowledge around the ethics of AI. Two of the biggest concerns when it comes to AI are: 1. Energy and water consumption 2. Plagiarism Amber is sharing key information about both of these, including tips for lowering and limiting your consumption, plus some really mind-blowing facts around plagiarism. One of the biggest things I learned? You can not copyright AI-generated content in the U.S. 🤯 We talk about what that means for when and how you use AI on client work. Trust me, you need to hear all of Amber’s insights. And a BIG thank you to Amber for sharing this wealth of information. If you missed our first conversation on whether AI is a copywriting friend or foe, you can catch that here. -------------------- Additional Resources If you’re interested in learning more about AI, here are a few resources we think you’ll enjoy: Read the International Energy Agency Energy and AI reportRead the World Economic Forum’s take on AI and energyRead more about how data centers are using waterLearn more about the data centers in Virginia and the Top 10 Data Center Markets in the USGet tips for writing smarter AI promptsRead the Report on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence from the U.S. Copyright OfficeRead more about why AI-generated content can’t be copyrighted in the U.S. Mentioned in the Episode Read more about George RR Martin and other authors suing AILearn more about the Colorado Artificial Intelligence ActRead more about Chevron deferenceVisit Amber’s website: copyamber.comHear our original conversation with Amber: Ep. 241: ChatGPT: Friend or Foe? – with Amber Smith Related Links Ep. 96: Artificial Intelligence Copywriting: Do You Need to Worry?Ep. BONUS: AI & Copywriting: Using AI to Your Advantage to Wow Clients and Land High-Paying WorkEp. 237: AI is Going to Take My Job!!! … But Is It --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Are you a “jump and the net will appear” kind of person? Personally, I like to have some sort of net. But, as this this week’s guest on the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast taught me, you can get creative with that net. CCA student and copywriter extraordinaire Daniel is sharing how five days after he quit his sales job, he moved to Thailand.  I know, you’re like, “But Nicki, you said he had a net.” 😱 Trust me, Daniel wasn’t willy nilly about changing careers. He knew his cost of living would be lower in Thailand, allowing him to live comfortably while he built up his client base.  And, phew, did he build a client base! While he’s not in Thailand anymore (you’ll have to listen in for more on his digital “slow-mad” lifestyle), Daniel is working 25 to 30 hours per week, earning a cool six figures per year. Yeah. I’m inspired by his career path and I think you will be, too. ------------------- Mentioned in the Episode The 4-Hour WorkweekDaniel Reece LinkedIn5 Ways to Vastly Improve Your Pitches to Would-Be Copywriting ClientsHow to Get Copywriting Referrals Related Links Ep. 95: Hitting 6 Figures As a Copywriter in 6 Months – Stacy’s StoryEp. 79: Hitting 6 Figures as a Copywriter & Cookbook Author – Kristin’s StoryEp. 214: Replacing a Corporate Job Salary with a 6-Figure Copywriting Business – Tori’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

The title of this episode should really be “copywriting secrets from my best friend” … who just happens to be the creative director at one o the country’s (if not the world’s!) most iconic retail brands. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, we are SO lucky that Melody was generous enough to share her time and decades of insights from working as a creative at Marshalls and TJ Maxx. She shares how she went from freelancer to group creative director leading a team of 18 copywriters, designers, creative directors, fashion editors, and more.  If you’ve ever wanted to get your foot in the door at an iconic brand or wonder what marketing execs look for when hiring (surprise: you do NOT need to niche!), take a listen. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Why Copywriters Absolutely Must Have a Network of DesignersEp. 10: Your Ideal Clients Want You to Pitch Them5 Questions to Make Your Spec Ads Even Better Related Links Daily Habits of the Most Successful Writers & CreativesKeep Your Copywriting Creative Review from Going off the Rails --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

“I’m genuinely living the life I envisioned. I am working with clients I love and sustaining myself through freelance work. It felt far away at first, but step by step, I built the reality I dreamed about.” That’s just a snippet of what Tammy shares in this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast.  If you’ve been a long-time BYCB podcast listener, you know we’ve talked with Tammy before. Last time, she was navigating being laid off from an agency she loved (you can catch that episode here). Spoiler: right before we released that episode, Tammy had landed a new job. But that was all more than TWO years ago. Now? She’s transitioned from a full-time job to full-time freelance and has plans to travel the world in 2026. The tiny steps we take now? Those are the actions that don’t seem like anything now. But will have us looking back a year from now thinking, “Wow!” Hit play and let Tammy’s step-by-step approach inspire you to take action on your biggest goals, one step at a time. ----------------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 144: Navigating Ups and Downs in a Copywriting Career – Tammy’s Story7 Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Portfolio SiteChanging Your Career to Copywriting While at Your Existing Job Related Links BONUS Laser Coaching: Transitioning to FreelanceHow to Make Time for Freelance Work --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

We had a little fun with this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast. Please enjoy this playful, poetic take on the chaotic, caffeinated, and creatively charged moments every copywriter knows all too well, inspired by “A Visit from St. Nicholas, a.k.a. “The Night Before Christmas.” --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Ever feel like quitting? Well, Jade did quit the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy. For like, years. But on this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, she’s sharing the far juicier part of the story: what she did differently when she came back to the CCA. Because it’s what she did differently that ultimately led her to a full-time copywriting job she loves. I am SO appreciative that Jade was willing to share her story. Because I think we’ve ALL been there. That moment when we’re like “nope, no thanks!” But then, once we get honest with ourselves, we realize maybe we do want to chase our dreams—even if it’s uncomfortable. Even if we feel like imposters. If you’ve been looking for a reason to recommit to your dreams, whatever they are, then I promise Jade’s story will help inspire that recommitment. ------------------------- Mentioned in the Episode Jade WebsiteIllinois Chapter of the National School PR Association. (INSPRA)5 Tips for Getting Down to Your Copywriting WorkBONUS Laser Coaching: Focusing On Work You Want to DoEp. BONUS: AI & Copywriting: Using AI to Your Advantage to Wow Clients and Land High-Paying Work Related Links Ep. 242: From Almost Giving Up on Copywriting to Being Booked 6 Months Out --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

The last time Kate shared a money update she was … uncomfortable to say the least.  I mean, we were coming off a pandemic. (You can watch that episode where she broke down her copywriting earnings right here.) But SO much has evolved in the last four years. So, we felt like it was time to give you an update. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate is sharing what’s changed with her approach to her copywriting income and money in general. We’re talking about the discomfort of going 120 mph (193 kmph for our global friends 😉) to going the speed limit, embracing “seasons” in business, and, of course, boundaries. I know you’ll find Kate’s insights valuable as you navigate your own income goals. -------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 4: Meet Our Head Copy Coach, KateEp. 189: Before Starting a Copywriting Side Hustle … Listen to ThisCopywriting for Love or Money Related Links Should a Money Mindset Matter to Copywriters?Ep. 101: Master Your Money Mindset – With Brie SodanoThe Easiest Way to Track Freelance Income [With Template]Ep. 112: Want to Earn Six Figures as a Copywriter? Get Your Finances in Order --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Ever feel like some stories just stay with you? That’s Catherine’s story for me. Catherine stepped away from a successful corporate career to raise her family in rural New Zealand. Then came a cancer diagnosis that flung everything into perspective. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Catherine shares how she built relationships with other business owners in her rural community (and beyond), replacing her corporate salary with her copywriting income. But let me be real with you, Catherine’s success didn’t happen overnight. She’s sharing the areas she focused on, how she consistently put in effort, and the pay off she saw as a result of her efforts. I can’t wait for you to hear this one, so, without further ado, take a listen! -------------- Mentioned in the Episode Catherine Website8 Tips for Networking SuccessFind Copywriting Clients by Networking in the Right PlacesQuestions You Need to Ask Your Copywriting Clients Related Links Ep. 115: This Teacher Wanted More Work/Life Balance…and Found It with Copywriting – Charlotte’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Raise your hand if you’ve ever told someone you’re a “copywriter” and 5 minutes later you realize they think you’re a copyrighter. 🙋🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️  We want to help you avoid that situation and ALL the others like it. That’s why Kate and I had the brilliant-beyond-brilliant idea to put together not one podcast episode this week but five super-short episodes that answer the most common questions copywriters get asked. These are questions, frankly, you may get asked not just around the holidays (though there’s a higher probability!), but really *any* time you’re interacting with family and friends who don’t know what you do.  So, take a listen while you’re driving to holiday dinner, running a turkey trot, or walking around on a Tuesday in July (hey, if you’re like me you save a lot of episodes to come back to later!). You’ll have ready-to-go responses to scenarios like:  👨What do you say when Uncle Phil asks, “what even is copywriting?” 🧑‍🦰What do you say when sister-in-law Kelsey shouts, “OMG isn’t freelancing is so risky?” 👴 How do you respond when Grandpa Stan asks, “Can you even make money as a writer?” 👶 What do you say when your nephew Tyler says, “Isn’t AI destroying copywriting?” 👩‍🦳 How do you navigate cousin Diane asking, “Can you look over my resume?” ------------- Mentioned in the Episode What Is Copywriting?BONUS Laser Coaching: Breaking the Feast or Famine Cycle, Nailing a Discovery Call, and Getting Replies on PitchesEp. 25: How Much Can a Copywriter Earn?Ep. 96: Artificial Intelligence Copywriting: Do You Need to Worry?3 Ways to Deal With Friends and Family Copywriting Rates Related Links Ep. 106: To Pitch or Not to Pitch Clients This Holiday Season? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

What a privilege it is that you and I get to exist on the planet at the same time as Joana. And when you listen to this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, I think you’ll get why. Like many of us, Joanna craved more of what’s most important in life: time with family. A teacher and mom of three, Joanna is proof that we don’t need more time. We just need to make better use of the time we have. She joined the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy and started building her business between lesson plans and bedtime routines. But just as things were taking off, life threw her a curveball: she was pregnant with her fourth child—and diagnosed with cancer. What could have easily derailed most of us, became a turning point for Joanna. She shares: How she transitioned from teaching to copywritingWhat kept her going through life’s biggest challengesHow she built a business that fits her version of success And, let me be honest, she’s the inspiration we all need right now! --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Joanna Kesner LinkedInRefining Pitches, Finding Focus, and Adding Companies to Your Pitch List Related Links Copywriting Lets This Mom Live Life on Her Own TermsEp. 136: Copywriting Transformed Her Quality of Life – Amy’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here 

If you’re going to spend time on social media, my friend, make it count. As you’ve liiiiikely experienced, social media is a major time suck by design. No one is immune. One minute I’m looking at a business owner’s account for tips on hiring, and the next thing I know it’s been 30 minutes and I’ve watched: 👰‍♀️ Wedding highlights from a couple I don’t know 🎂 “Which one is cake?” video with onions and garlic cloves 🎨 And a video of an artist turning old doilies into pottery (that video was actually really cool) Social media can be an even bigger time suck if you’re on there to find clients … but going about it the wrong way. First, as you’ve probably heard us say, you do not need to be on social media to have a thriving copywriting career. If that’s you, then skip this episode and keep scrolling down for a different episode to watch. (Yes, I fully realize that’s going to hurt this episode’s numbers, but hey! I’d rather be honest than have you waste time on something you don’t need.) But, if you like social media and want to attract clients—not just likes—then this week’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast is for you. Kate and I are covering a lot of ground, including:  The biggest mistakes copywriters make in their biosHow to use social strategically—not aimlesslyWhy clarity always beats clevernessWhat makes your perspective the most valuable content you can share -------------- Related Links Ep. 239: Do Copywriters Need a Personal Brand?Who You’re Not Following on Social Media (But Should Be)Ep. 173: How to Elevate Your Profile & Land Copywriting Clients on LinkedInEp. 143: Business Builder or Time Waster?Ep. 103: Becoming a Social Media Copywriter & Manager—Carli’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

I don’t like to play favorites, but according to the data, one of our most-watched student stories of all time was with Adele and her now-husband Jake (you can watch that original episode right here). The two of them were super kind enough to share what it was like shifting from a completely unrelated job into copywriting—and supporting a loved one during that transition. My favorite part about that episode was that Jake thought the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy was a scam, but once he saw Adele in action bought her a new laptop. Well, that conversation was nearly four years ago (I know, I don’t understand time). So, while we’ve seen Adele since then, it was long overdue for a podcast catch up. You can hear our most conversation on this week’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast. If you’re wondering where copywriting can take you or how you evolve your career as your goals change, Adele’s got so much great advice to share. Plus, she’s telling us where she’s taking her business next, and we couldn’t be more excited for her!!! (Yes, she’s taking a three-exclamation-marks-worthy next step.) --------------------- Mentioned in the Episode Changing Careers to Become a Copywriter – Adele’s Story Related Links What Software Do You Need to Run Your Copywriting Business?Ep. 241: ChatGPT: Friend or Foe? – with Amber Smith --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

OK, if you’re honest with me, I’ll be honest with you: How many podcasts, emails, newsletters, trainings, etc.etc.etc. are on your “to listen/watch/read” list?  Last I checked, I had 103 podcast episodes downloaded.  Kate told me her Goodreads “want to read” list currently sits at 398 books. Will I listen to some of those podcasts? Absolutely. Will Kate read many of those books? 100%. But there’s always going to be more.  Don’t get me wrong, consuming information is necessary!  But at a certain point all that consumption can start to feel like just another task you can check off your list. It feels productive. And sometimes it is. And sometimes you space out after listening to the same 30 seconds of the podcast 3x over and realize you “listened” to it … but you didn’t do anything with it.  Heck, sometimes I don’t even remember what I just heard. So, Kate and I decided to share our best tips for unplugging on this week’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast. Why? Well, sometimes the best thing you can do for your business isn’t reading another marketing or copywriting tip. It’s not downloading another guide. It’s not listening to podcasts (I know, shooting ourselves in the foot a little there …) Sometimes the best thing is turning it all off for a bit and letting your brain breathe. Now excuse me while I go stare out a window for 10 minutes. 😉 ---------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 157: Are You Living in the Gap or the Gain?Avoid Burnout as a Copywriter Related Links 8 Must-Listen Podcasts to Amp Up Your Digital Marketing KnowledgeThe Best Copywriting Courses vs. Waste of Time (and Money!) --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

I need to get one thing out of the way: Elyse is the self-described president of the Slow Turtle Club™. If I were to give her a title, it’d be president of the Really-Cool Canadian Copywriters Club™. In all seriousness, if you’ve ever felt like everyone else is speeding ahead while you’re still like, “where do I even start?!” then, Elyse is going to be your new favorite person. (And let’s be real: who hasn’t felt that way?????) Elyse was generous enough to share her full story (and some bada*s advice) with Kate and I on this week’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast. She shares how she took her time to learn and build a copywriting career that fits her life and NOT the other way around. Elyse’s story is proof that success doesn’t have to be fast to be fulfilling. Sometimes the “slow path” is the most sustainable one of all. So, back to that “slow turtle” title… … it’s can be smart to move slowly and with intention. We’re asking Elyse for an invite to the club. Who’s with us? 🙋‍♀️ ------------- Mentioned in the Episode Elyse Gambar-Hynes LinkedInElyse Gambar-Hynes WebsiteEp. 173: How to Elevate Your Profile & Land Copywriting Clients on LinkedInHow to Put Together a Copywriting Portfolio (Even With No Experience)Why Every Copywriter Needs a Standalone Portfolio SiteBONUS Laser Coaching: Top Tips for Wildly Effective PitchingEp. 203: Secrets to Smooth Copywriting Client RelationsEp. 134: Keep Copywriting Fun: 3 Must-Implement Business Boundaries --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

You may have heard me say that I only verrrrrry occasionally take on freelance clients. (Supporting students in the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy is my #1 job!) So, when I tell you this one was too good to pass up you know it’s goooood. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, I’m telling you all about it. And I’ll be honest: even after 20+ years in copywriting, I still felt those new-client nerves creep in. New people (including working with an on-staff copywriter!), new systems, new brand voice…the nerves are natural. That’s why I wanted to take you behind-the-scenes. From copy test (YUP!) to onboarding to the little ways I make sure I’m showing up at my best, I’m sharing it all. If you’re on the path to landing your first client or you’ve just landed your so-many-clients-you’ve-lost-count client, I think you’ll find this one especially valuable. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode How To Set Up Your Schedule When Working from HomeEp. 56: What is a Copywriting Test and Should You Do One?How to Make Time for Freelance Work Related Links Land Copywriting Clients With These 35 Tips --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here 

Imagine juggling full-time teaching, full-time parenting, and a five-year-long divorce. Exhausting doesn’t even begin to cover it.  That was Vikki’s reality until she realized one thing: no one was coming to change her life for her. If she wanted something different, she’d have to create it. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Vikki was suuuuper generous with sharing her story and how she went from burnout to building an entire new career. Vikki has not only doubled her income, she’s also working less hours. Normally I’d totally get if you were like, “Nicki, spoiler alert!” But the magic is in the way she got to this point. Vikki is sharing all her best tips (Kate and I walked away with some new ones!), including how she kept moving forward, even when the big picture felt overwhelming. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Victoria Burton Copywriting LinkedInEarning More As a Freelancer than On Staff – Catching Up With StuartAston UniversityHow to Elevate Your Profile & Land Copywriting Clients on LinkedIn Related Links Teacher Burnout, Guilt, and Getting Into a New ProfessionThis Teacher Now Leads a Team of Copywriters – Catching Up with Charlotte --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

If the thought of “showing up on social” makes you want to toss your phone out the window … you’re not alone. Here’s the truth: social media can help you grow your copywriting business—but not in the way most people think. (And if you’re OVER social media, then skip this episode. You DO NOT have to be on social media to have a thriving business, no matter what you may hear from the social-media loving “gurus.”) On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are talking exactly how to:  ✅ Use social strategically (instead of endlessly scrolling) ✅ Pick the right platform for your clients (and ignore the rest) ✅ Post without feeling like you’re shouting into the void ✅ Build trust and relationships—without pitching strangers in the DMs Whether you love social or hate it, you’ll walk away with a clear, realistic plan for making it work for you (not the other way around). ----------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 239: Do Copywriters Need a Personal Brand?5 Keys for Getting Valuable Connections on LinkedInUse Copywriting Networking to Help Land More Clients Related Links Ep. 173: How to Elevate Your Profile & Land Copywriting Clients on LinkedInWho You’re Not Following on Social Media (But Should Be)Ep. 103: Becoming a Social Media Copywriter & Manager—Carli’s Story ----------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here