Build Your Copywriting Business

She left her hairstylist job one day … and landed an agency copywriting role the next. Her portfolio when she landed the job? 100% spec ads. She’s never stepped foot in an office. And right now? She’s working remotely from Morocco, contracting with agencies around the world. To say we’re in awe of Katherine’s path is an understatement. After more than a decade behind the chair, she knew it was time to make the emotional decision to move on. And if you’re feeling that same pull—even if you love your current career—Katherine’s story is one you need to hear. Katherine was kind enough to spend some time sharing her story on the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, including the strategies that helped launch her copywriting career. As someone who loved her job, she’s offering deep insight into how she knew it was the right time to make a change. ---------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 100: Take Advantage of the Digital Nomad LifestylePortfolio Examples That Wow ClientsBreak Into New Copywriting Industries Using Spec Ads Related Links Ep. 232: From Copywriter to Product Marketer (And Homeowner in Spain!) – Alba’s StoryBONUS – Laser Coaching: How Can I Work Remotely from Anywhere in the World? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

You’ve written your copy. You’ve proofread it. You’re ready to send it off to the client… …Or are you? In this week’s episode of Build Your Copywriting Business, we’re walking you through the often skipped step that comes between “done writing” and “client ready.” Think: a mini checklist—but not your typical copyediting or proofreading list. We’re talking strategy and specific copy tweaks that will make your message stronger (and, ultimately, work better!). These are the questions we run through every single time before handing off copy to a client—and after this episode, you’ll have them in your toolkit, too. -------------- Mentioned in the Episode What Your Headlines Are MissingWhat’s a CTA or Call to Action?How to Write a Sales Page That’ll Make Your Client EcstaticWhere Content Belongs on Your Copywriting Portfolio Site Related Links Ep. 74: Copywriting Checklist: 5 Things to Check Before Submitting Copy4 Things Most Copywriters Get Wrong on Their Portfolio Websites --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Ever felt so drained and discouraged you thought, “Maybe I should just give up”? That’s exactly where Bart was—not just doubting his move from corporate sales to copywriting, but seriously questioning if he could make it work at all. Fast forward: Bart is now booked out for six months—and here’s what may surprise you… …he did it without social media. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business, Bart was generous to share his story, including how he turned things around. He’s also sharing the mindset shifts that helped him push through the hardest moments, and the surprising decisions (like stepping completely away from social) that actually helped him thrive. As Bart says, “A lot can change in a very short time… if you don’t give up.” If you’re burned out or doubting yourself, this episode might be exactly what you need to hear. ----------------- Mentioned in the Episode Bart Ellebaut LinkedInBONUS Laser Coaching: Top Tips for Wildly Effective PitchingBONUS Laser Coaching: Asking for Feedback to Combat Imposter SyndromeEp. 134: Keep Copywriting Fun: 3 Must-Implement Business Boundaries Related Links Ep. 191: This Copywriter Books Work 3+ Months Out—Here’s How She Does It – Lizzie’s StoryEp. 95: Hitting 6 Figures As a Copywriter in 6 Months – Stacy’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

AI is taking all the copywriting jobs!” Sound familiar? Before you spiral, hit play on this week’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast. AI expert and copywriter Amber Smith is breaking down exactly why that narrative is wrong. Amber runs a successful agency serving powerhouse brands like Ann Taylor, Clinique, and Coach. She’s been deep in the AI space from day one—and she’s sharing why copywriters aren’t being replace…they’re being required. In this episode, Amber shares: How AI really works—and why it needs human copywritersSmart, ethical ways to use AI to elevate your client workHow she’s getting paid to help clients integrate AI into their workflows (including writing creative briefs!) Whether you’re skeptical, curious, or already experimenting with AI, this episode is your no-fluff guide to navigating AI as a modern copywriter. ------------------ Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 205 – Copywriter Holiday Survival: How to Answer Questions About Your Job Related Links Can Copywriting Software Replace Skilled Copywriters in 2025?Ep. 96: Artificial Intelligence Copywriting: Do You Need to Worry? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Freedom and security: those were two core values that Avalon identified. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Avalon is sharing how these core values grounded her decision making—and allowed her to identify and choose opportunities that align with these values. Using this as her guide, Avalon was able to: 🍷Transition from a career in the wine industry to copywriting 🚛 Move from California to North Carolina with her husband—without jobs 💼 Seamlessly jump back into the workforce when she was ready (she was back in 3 weeks!) 💻 Shift between in-person work and remote work (she’s currently working in office most days) Her advice: Go after what you want. As a self-described introvert, Avalon says she’s in a growth phase and is sharing some of her goals for this year and beyond. Listen in so you can cheer her on—and get a little inspiration for entering your own growth era.  CCA students: Avalon mentions pitching yourself to podcasts. You can check out that event with PR pro Christina Lenkowski on your dashboard under the “Special Events” section.  ----------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 20: Changing Careers to Become a Copywriter – Adele’s StoryBONUS: Earning More As a Freelancer than On Staff – Catching Up With StuartEp. 215: Land Copywriting Clients with Podcast Publicity – with Christina Lenkowski Related Links Ep. 230: Copywriting Across the Country in an RV – Sarah’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

❌ Fancy logo ❌ Color palette ❓Personal brand You’ve probably heard us talk about all the shiny distractions when it comes to earning money as a copywriter. Is a “personal brand” another one? On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are breaking down what a personal brand is and whether or not you need one to succeed in today’s copywriting climate. Spoiler: just because you exist does not make you a brand. Your reputation behind closed doors with your clients is far more important than public perception of you on social media. ------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 208: Are You Doing These 4 Things That Clients Look for in Freelancers?BONUS – Laser Coaching: How Do I Find Clients for Freelancing? Related Links This Brand-New Copywriter Landed a Senior Copywriting RoleWhy Brand Voice Matters in Copywriting3 Things to Remember if You’re Brand New to Copywriting --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Ever feel like the only way forward in your career… is up a corporate ladder that you don’t even want to be on in the first place? Yvonne did, too. After 15+ years in communications roles at mission-driven nonprofits, she knew things had to shift after the birth of her son. She asked a question many parents ask: “How can I do work I love, get paid my worth, and still be present for my family?” On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Yvonne shares how discovering copywriting gave her a path to both professional purpose and personal balance. She also shares her approach to client outreach (yes, she really took our “It’s just an email” advice to heart!) and offers smart, honest tips for pitching in a way that feels natural and authentic—especially if you’re new. If you’re dreaming of a career that fits your life, not the other way around, let Yvonne’s story provide you with a healthy dose of inspiration. There is a way to fulfillment in all areas of your life—if you’re willing to get creative and look away from the typical “ladder” and climb your own. ---------------- Mentioned in the Episode yvonneturnercopy.comEp. 62: Defining Copywriting Success for YourselfEp. 187: Change My Mind About Advertising! How to Be an Ethical CopywriterFreelance Copywriter Benefits: How to Build Your Own Benefits Package Related Links Ep. 177: Reframing Your Copywriting Goals to Align with Your Values – with Jessica Lackey --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Ready for the truth about AI and copywriting? AI is shifting the way everyone does work. Including copywriters. YAWN! Boring. 🥱 Yup. That’s a headline that doesn’t get clicks. “AI is destroying these 5 industries” does get clicks. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are having a conversation about how technology, marketing, and the world have always shifted (even since we started our careers!) and will continue to shift. The key to future-proofing your career is staying on top of these shifts as these come. AI is simply another one of these shifts. What we’ve seen from actually using these tools and working with clients? AI is making it more efficient for us to do certain tasks in our jobs. That means there will be more work for copywriters as clients realize we can move through projects a bit faster. Businesses have a never-ending to-do list of projects. It’s not like you will get through your copy projects and suddenly there are no more projects. And if that does happen? That’s probably a good indicator for you to re-pitch your clients 😉 ------------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 145: Catchy Hook or Clickbait? How to Tell the DifferenceEp. BONUS: AI & Copywriting: Using AI to Your Advantage to Wow Clients and Land High-Paying Work Related Links Ep. 117: Best Free Software for CopywritersCan Copywriting Software Replace Skilled Copywriters in 2025?What Software Do You Need to Run Your Copywriting Business? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

I am SO excited to share this summer reading list with you—straight from the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy community! We crowdsourced dozens of recommendations and (after a very heated debate) narrowed it down to 15 top picks: a mix of can’t-put-it-down novels and business-building gems. On this this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business we’re breaking down why each book made the list—and how they can help you grow as a copywriter and enjoy some much-needed downtime. Your challenge? Pick at least one book for fun and one to fuel your business. Got a favorite summer read we missed? Leave a comment! We’d love to grow this list with even more crowd-sourced gems. (And I’m always looking to add to my Goodreads list.) And I’d love to know: which book are you diving into first? ---------------- Mentioned in the Episode Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanOnline Influence by Bas WoutersI will Teach you to be Rich by Ramit SethiThe Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan HolidayThe Ministry of Time by Kaliane BradleyGod of the Woods by Liz MooreTapestries by Kien NguyenStories Sell by Matthew DicksLetter to my Daughter written by George BishopThe Four Tendencies by Gretchen RubinThe Perfect Horse by Elizabeth LettsMindset: The Psychology of Success by Carol S DweckJobs to Be Done: Theory to Practice by Anthony W UlwickThe Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham JonesMass Persuasion Method by Bushra Azhar Related Links Our Roundup of Books Copywriters Will Enjoy --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

If you’ve followed the Comprehensive Copywriting Academy for any amount of time, you know there are as many ways to shape a copywriting career as there are copywriters. Stevi’s story is the perfect example of how building your career in a way that works for you is essential to long-term success. And what works for you may change. And then change again. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Stevi is sharing how she made the decision to leave a nonprofit job she loved to pursue writing—even with two small children, a mortgage, and a pandemic thrown into the mix. I’m going to be honest, I have no idea what we’re cracking up about in this photo, but I will say that this entire conversation with Stevi was a complete delight. She shares how, like many of us!, she bounced around between various jobs to pay the bills, but kept coming back to building a career as a writer (she does have a degree in creative writing after all). And, what was incredible to hear, was how Stevi and her husband got creative in how they approached their goals, their schedules, and their priorities so they could build their lives in a way that works for them. Her story really highlights how incredible it is to have a career that allows you to pivot to fit your lifestyle in any given moment. ---------------- Mentioned in the Episode Replacing Teaching Income with Copywriting Income in 6 Weeks – Erin’s StoryThis CCA Student Makes 6 Figures…While Living on a Mediterranean Island – Brittany’s StoryEp. 136: Copywriting Transformed Her Quality of Life – Amy’s Story Related Links Ep. 47: Raising a Family and Building a Copywriting Business—Peta’s StoryEp. 107: Building a Copywriting Business as a Mom – with Kate K, Dorothy & JenCopywriting Lets This Mom Live Life on Her Own Terms --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Meta’s making a major shift—and it’s about to change how ads work on their platforms in a big way If you’ve ever written (or plan to write) Meta ads for clients, this is something you need to understand. Because while you might not be managing ad budgets or running campaigns (and honestly, we don’t recommend it unless you’re trained to do it)… You are responsible for writing the copy that gives the ads the best chance to drive results. On this episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, we’re breaking down Meta’s phase-out of detailed audience targeting—and what it means for you as a copywriter. No need to hit the panic button, just the “listen” or “watch” button. We’ll tell you exactly what you need to know to stay ahead and keep delivering for your clients. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Meta Ads LibraryMeta advertising standardsEp. 18: How to Land Your First Copywriting Clients—Without Experience Related Links Find Copywriting Clients on Facebook: 3 Tips and 1 Big WarningThe Cool New Tool for Facebook/Meta Ads Copywriting Research --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

I love this quote so much I have to repeat it: “I can’t ask for permission. I just need to do it.”  That’s what Holly said when she decided to draft a proposal for a copywriting position and present it to her boss … … even though she was working a full-time customer success position. … even though she was well aware she had bills to pay and this was a “risk.” That proposal? It was rejected. But you’ll want to listen to this one to hear the full story and—spoiler!—happy ending. -------------- Mentioned in the Episode Hollyseybertcopy.comEp. 117: Best Free Software for CopywritersEp. 211: How to Weather the Ups and Downs of BusinessBONUS Laser Coaching: Top Tips for Wildly Effective Pitching Related Links Ep. 218: Copywriting Opens Doors to Career Opportunities – Sunny’s StoryBONUS Laser Coaching: Finding Confidence Learning Something NewBONUS Laser Coaching: Build Confidence & Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a Copywriter --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Father’s Day is approaching and, if you don’t mind, I’d like to do something a little different with this episode of the Build Your Copywriting podcast. We lost my dad on Father’s Day last year and CCA students have probably heard me talk about how integral he was to me getting into copywriting to begin with. So, this week’s episode of the podcast is a short tribute to the late, great, and very missed Mike Krawczyk. Never fear: Next week we’ll be back with our regularly scheduled straightforward copywriting content but..this week I just felt called to share a bit about my dad with you and the rest of our community. -------------- Mentioned in the Episode Dr. Natali Edmonds’ Dementia Careblazers Related Links Remembering Mike Krawczyk --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Do you remember when Kate and I shared allllll sorts of jobs you can do with a background in copywriting? (I totally get if you don’t remember, but you can catch that podcast episode right here.) Thanks to CCA student Alba, we’ve got another one to add to that list: product marketer. On today’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Alba was generous enough to join us from Spain (where, spoiler, she’s from and now a homeowner!). She is sharing the full story that led her from working 60 hour weeks teaching in the UK to becoming a copywriter and, ultimately, landing a product marketing role that allows her to work from her home in Spain. Alba’s journey is the perfect reminder that you never know where your career will take you. But if you’re open to the possibilities, copywriting can take you places you may not even realize are options.  I can’t wait for you to hear all of Alba’s wisdom (and how one of her first copy clients was the World Health Organization—how cool is that?!).  ------------------ Mentioned in the Episode How Do I Know If I’m Ready to Pitch Copywriting Clients?How to Fast Track Your Copywriting Career SuccessEp. 203: Secrets to Smooth Copywriting Client Relations Related Links Ep. 59: Buying a New Home with Copywriting Income – Shannon’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Raise your hand if you’ve recently felt: 😮‍💨 Burnout. 😟 Guilt from even thinking about taking time to rest (and combat the aforementioned burnout). 😓 Extra guilt about considering changing professions. If you said “yes” to all 3, we’re willing to bet you are a teacher. Today’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast is dedicated to the teachers in our community. If that’s you, a giant thank you for your service. If you’re NOT a teacher, but have felt any of the following: You don’t have more to give at your current jobYou are stuck in a career because you have poured so much time, energy, and money into itYou have an obligation to your profession Then you’ll want to listen, too. Some of the biggest questions you face when even exploring other possibilities for your career are “what would I even do?” or “how would I even start over?” Exploring these questions can kick up major resistance. But in this episode, we’re encouraging you to reframe this exploration. What if your current career isn’t a lifelong calling? You have a set of skills. You are never starting over. You have so much life left to live. A year, five years, ten years, is a long time. And, yes, you deserve better. You deserve more. -------------- Mentioned in the Episode Best Backgrounds and Degrees for Getting Into CopywritingCopywriting Tips for Creating Ideas and Concepts That StickThe Copywriter’s Creativity ProblemSummer Rewind: Ep 15. Traits of the Most Successful CopywritersWhat Does it Take to Become a Copywriter? Related Links Her Goal Was to Replace Her Teaching Income in 5 Months: She Did It in 6 Weeks – Erin’s StoryEp. 148: Copywriting Replaced This Teacher’s Income and She Works Less Hours – Jess’s StoryEp. 160: How This Teacher Doubled Her Salary and Decreased Stress – Amanda’s StoryEp. 176: How This Ex-Teacher Joined the Filthy Rich Writer Team—As a Copywriter – Rebecca’s StoryEp. 206: From Monk to Teacher to Copywriter – John’s StoryEp. 222: This Teacher Now Leads a Team of Copywriters – Catching Up with CharlotteEp. 91: Transitioning Out of Teaching to Copywriting – George’s Story --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/FRW and get on your way to being your best self. ⛰️ National parks. 🇲🇽 Mexico. 📍And currently Arizona. As someone who values her freedom and flexibility, Sarah has been RVing since 2019 and living her dream working wherever she wants, whenever she wants. By the time this airs who knows where Sarah will be! (How cool is that?!) On today’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are bringing you a long overdue conversation with Sarah (we get to see her regularly in the CCA Next Level mastermind…but realized we haven’t shared her story with YOU!). Yes, she’s sharing tips on working while traveling, the tech tools she swears by, and how she stays safe. But she’s sharing SO much more than that, including how she improves her copywriting skills and the point she hit in her business that spurred her to join CCA Next Level. (Our favorite tip: “Don’t be afraid to stand out in whatever way you naturally stand out.”) ------------ Mentioned in the Episode Sarah’s Portfolio – flourishwriting.com7 Tips to Living the Digital Nomad Lifestyle as a CopywriteBONUS – Laser Coaching: A Copywriter’s Guide to Creative ThinkingEp. 5: Why Choosing a Copywriting Niche is Terrible Advice Related Links 6 Must-Pack Items to Write Copy OverseasEp. 140: Traveling Europe While Running a Copywriting Agency—Chris’s StoryEp. 100: Take Advantage of the Digital Nomad LifestyleBONUS – Laser Coaching: How Can I Work Remotely from Anywhere in the World? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

🟢 Good news: we always have the option to learn and grow as humans. 🟡 Bad news: improving ourselves requires change. And change requires you to go through a 5-stage emotional cycle.  🔴 The worst news: most people are doomed to repeat stages 1 to 3 over and over and over again.  Whether you’re learning to write copy, attempting a consistent gym routine, developing a flossing habit, or any other change, you will go through this emotional cycle. On today’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are walking you through the 5 stages of the emotional cycle of change and sharing crucial tips to help you make it past stage 3. If you’ve ever felt like giving up (and who hasn’t?!), you’re going to learn exactly why that is and what you can do to push through the “valley of despair” to reach the pinnacle of success. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Book: The 12 Week YearFive Stages You Move Through Emotionally When Changing Behavior (From InFocus Leadership Solutions)BONUS Laser Coaching: Build Confidence & Overcome Imposter Syndrome as a CopywriterWhat to Do When You Feel InadequateBONUS Laser Coaching: Finding Confidence Learning Something New Related Links The System Copywriters Need to Efficiently Get Work DoneLearn How To Stay Focused Year-Round With Help From These Books5 Easy Tips for Maximizing Your Time --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

Raise your hand if your background has nothing to do with copywriting. 🙋‍♀️🙋🙋‍♂️ That’s where 99.9% of us start, too! Jenny is no different: She spent 10 years as a tennis coach in the United Kingdom, where she’s from, and New Zealand, where she has lived for more than 15 years. After another decade working for Tennis New Zealand, Jenny wondered if it was even possible to transition to another career. Spoiler: Jenny effectively changed careers. On today’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, she’s sharing her tips for what to consider if you want to change careers.  But beyond that, Jenny is sharing how she used her previous career experience to launch her copywriting career—and quit her full-time job after sending her second invoice. If you’ve ever had the thought, “Am I stuck here forever?” you need to listen to Jenny’s story.  Whether you’re looking to transition to copywriting or still exploring your options, Jenny offers inspiration to realize you are never stuck. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode 5 Keys for Getting Valuable Connections on LinkedInUse Copywriting Networking to Help Land More ClientsJenny’s Portfolio – lovegrovecopy.comThe Book: What Color Is Your Parachute?The Book: The 12 Week Year Related Links Ep 140: Traveling Europe While Running a Copywriting Agency—Chris’s StoryEp. 73: Bridging the Gap from Quitting a Job to Full-Time Freelance --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

About pages are SO important: They’re often the most visited page after the homepage. But so many copywriters get the purpose of these pages so, so backwards. As CCA students know, we often laugh that the “about” page is not about you. (Or, if you’re writing the page for your client, not about them.) Effective about pages convey to the user what the company can do for them. Why should they go with this business over a competitor? Why should they trust this business to solve their challenge or fulfill their need? On today’s episode of the Build Your Copywriting Business podcast, Kate and I are giving examples of the types of things you might include on an about page and key elements you need consider any time you’re writing an about page. So, if you want to make sure you’re nailing all the key elements of these pages (and what you NEED to consider any time you’re writing an about page), then listen now so you’re prepared to knock your next about page out of the park. --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Creative Brief: The First Step to Any Successful Copywriting ProjectWebsites Copywriters Need to BookmarkHow to Win Trust to Get Copywriting Clients Related Links Laser Copy Coaching: Value-Based Pitches, English-Language Nuances, and About Pages4 Steps to Write a Wildly Effective About Us PageWhy Landing Pages Are the Perfect First Copywriting ProjectsHow to Write a Sales Page That’ll Make Your Client Ecstatic --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here

AI is coming for your job next 😟 AI is wiping these people out of work 😰 Within 5 years, AI will destroy these careers 😱 People loooooove to click on sensationalist, put-a-stake-in-the-ground headlines. And the algorithm just feeds the drama. No one is clicking on headlines like “AI is changing the way these 5 job roles go about their work.” But here’s the boring truth: AI is a support, not a solution. This special bonus podcast episode is actually a training: “AI & Your Copywriting Career: What You NEED to Know to Use AI to Your Advantage, Wow Your Clients, & Keep Landing High-Paying Work.” In it, Kate and I are are sharing ways you can use AI to work smarter, including prompts that will help your productivity while still wowing your clients. No career field looks like it did 10 years ago—or even 5 years ago. Instagram, TikTok, heck—the internet itself!!—are so new in the scheme of advertising and copywriting. People have had to evolve from expensive photoshoots to more quick-and-dirty content to meet the cadence of the social media cycle.  Copywriting has been around for decades (Google it, and some people would argue *centuries*). Copywriting is not going away, just evolving like everything else. Adaptability will always be crucial in any field. But lucky for us, the core principles of copywriting (features vs benefits, a clear CTA, etc.) remain the same. Ready to start using AI to your advantage? --------------- Mentioned in the Episode Ep. 117: Best Free Software for Copywriters Related Links Can Copywriting Software Replace Skilled Copywriters in 2025? --------------- Get Free Copywriting Training here