The Marketing Freelancer: Unicorns Unite

We hear the corporate escape stories all the time. What we don’t hear as often is what happens after. My guest built a stronger, smarter, and more aligned freelance marketing business on the other side of it. That’s why I loved this conversation with Tyneshia Dise. She walked away from a high-pressure corporate sales role after hitting burnout, went back to school for a marketing degree, and slowly built her agency through networking, internships, referrals, and showing up online long before it felt comfortable. Today, she leads a team of four and runs her business with solid onboarding, real systems, clear communication, and regular client check-ins. And inside our Workgroup, she’s already booked 6 out of 10 discovery calls and landed a client that gave her a 4x ROI.Tyneshia is the founder of The Innovative Design Group and a digital marketing strategist with 20 years in sales and marketing, specializing in helping service-based business owners refine their message, build standout websites, and create campaigns that drive measurable growth.Listen to learn more about:How Tyneshia used her corporate sales background to build a thriving freelance marketing agencyWhy emotionally-driven messaging is the secret weapon behind stronger conversionsHow to improve your discovery calls using active listening & buyer insightsWhat freelancers get wrong about DIY marketing and how to fix itThe systems, onboarding, and client experience shifts that helped her scaleTyneshia’s growth came from intention and experience. Tune in because her story is a powerful example of what’s possible when you mix skill, strategy, and community support.Sponsored by The Digital Marketer’s Workgroup Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network? Join our tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you’ll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!Links Mentioned in the Show: Grab Tyneshia’s Free Email Marketing Guide: If you want your emails to land, not just send, Tyneshia’s free 67-page e-book is a must. It teaches freelancers and VAs how to clarify their message, write emails that resonate, and build automations that feel personal, not robotic. Perfect for anyone managing client newsletters, funnels, or retention campaigns.Connect with Tyneshia:Instagram: @innovativedesign_cleFacebook: The Innovative Design Group_CLEWebsite: https://theinnovativedesigngroup.com/ Connect with Emily:Facebook Community: Emily’s Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant LabInstagram:a...

Black Friday is around the corner, and if your product-based clients aren’t ready with their e-commerce marketing, it’s not too late. Progress over perfection is the name of the game.In this episode, I’m joined by Business Strategist Carlyn Bushman to talk about e-commerce marketing, Shopify strategy, and how freelancers like you can confidently support product-based clients heading into Q4. We’re breaking down what’s actually working in today’s noisy e-com world, like using Shopify data, SMS campaigns, and smart AI tools, so you can bring real strategy to your clients.Carlyn Bushman is the founder of Carlyn Bushman Consulting and the powerhouse behind POP Academy—a no-fluff, all-strategy learning hub for product-based business owners who want to scale smart and stay profitable. With a background in corporate leadership and deep expertise in business strategy, she’s obsessed with helping founders ditch the guesswork, master their numbers, and finally build the business they’ve been dreaming about with practical tools, real talk, and data that actually drives growth.Listen to learn more about:How to use Shopify analytics and Sidekick AI to plan smarter Q4 promotionsWhy SMS marketing is outperforming email (and how to start small)Real talk on omni-channel marketing and what “being everywhere” actually meansTips for creating multiple day-of promos for Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber MondayHow freelance marketers can support e-commerce clients with data-driven strategy and executionThis episode gives you the exact tools, talking points, and tactics to confidently show up for your product-based clients and turn their data into measurable sales growth.Sponsored by The Digital Marketer’s Workgroup Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network? Join our tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you’ll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!Links Mentioned in the Show: Grab Carlyn’s FREE Grant Resource List here. Carlyn took care of the research, so you can focus on applying. Get access to grant opportunities up to $100,000 covering startup support, industry-specific capital, and opportunities for creatives, women-owned brands, and beyond. Grants are added weekly, so bookmark it and keep it on hand to reference all year long!Watch our video in Carlyn’s Founder Series: Marketing That's Actually Working in 2025 with Emily ReaganThe Mom Test by Rob FitzpatrickConnect with Carlyn:Instagram: @carlynbushmanconsulting Facebook: CMB BrandsWebsite:

If you haven’t listened yet, here are Part 1 and Part 2 of our replay: 7 Ways to Land Clients.Landing clients as a freelancer starts with visibility that feels genuine. When you show up with purpose, speak your clients’ language, and stay consistent, opportunities start finding you.This is Part 3 of our live event 7 Ways to Land Clients, featuring freelance marketers from our Digital Marketer’s Workgroup. They’re sharing exactly how they position themselves online with Facebook groups, lead follow-ups, and peer referrals—without the burnout or “pick me” energy.Brittany Gardner shares how showing up consistently in Facebook groups led to a 1,766% ROI, steady word-of-mouth referrals, and clients who now come to her.Liz Cruz breaks down her strategy for following up with warm leads and positioning herself as the go-to expert, resulting in over $10K in booked client work in a single month.Keri McDonnell brings insight into building long-term relationships and staying visible in the right communities, proving the power of genuine connection and consistency.Listen to learn more about:How to show up in Facebook groups and attract clients without sounding desperateThe “long-game” strategy that turns community engagement into steady referralsFollowing up with warm leads and position yourself as the obvious choiceThe secret to client retention and referrals through professionalism and consistencyIf you’re ready to stop chasing clients and start attracting them, this episode shows you the proven, human-centered way to do it. Enroll now: The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated, but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Enroll here at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show: Already doing client work? Join Our Digital Marketer’s Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. You’ll benefit from advanced trainings, member-only discounts, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply at marketersworkgroup.comConnect with...

If you missed it, here’s Part 1 of our live event replay: 7 Ways to Land Clients.This episode is Part 2, and I’m joined by three of our Workgroup members share how they consistently book clients without cold pitching or chasing leads. We’re talking about the real strategies that work—building genuine relationships, growing your reputation, and showing up with visibility that gets noticed.Angela Kiszka shares how genuine relationships and clear positioning as a funnel strategist built her referral-fueled business, where clients come straight from name drops.Janelle Harlan reveals how podcast guesting and bundle collaborations led to multiple long-term clients (including a $50K retainer) by owning her niche in email and ActiveCampaign.Connie Hurlburt breaks down how relationship marketing with her network and follow-through keep her booked with repeat clients who trust her expertise.Listen to learn more about:The power of relationships and reputation that bring in repeat clientsVisibility opportunities that actually convert to paid projectsPositioning and niching so people instantly know what you doThe mindset shift from chasing clients to attracting them naturallyIf you’re tired of chasing clients and ready to have them come to you, this episode will show you what’s possible when you build genuine relationships and step into visibility.Enroll now: The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated, but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23. Class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Enroll here at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show: Already doing client work? Join Our Digital Marketer’s Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. You’ll benefit from advanced trainings, member-only discounts, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply at marketersworkgroup.comListen to Part 1: How to Land Freelance Clients Using Warm Leads, Directories, and Client Referrals #268Connect with...

Wondering how to get freelance clients without cold DMs, awkward pitches, or job board burnout? Welcome to Part 1 of our live event replay: 7 Ways to Land Clients. A panel of talented freelancers joins me to share the real strategies that helped them attract clients through warm leads, online directories, and word-of-mouth referrals.My guest speakers are Workgroup members who’ve mastered the art of visibility and positioning. They break down how they built trust, refined their messaging, and leveraged relationships to create steady, high-quality client pipelines.Katie Fisher shares how our Workgroup directory & a Kajabi certification led to multiple high-value projects and affiliate income.Robyn Stoney walks us through her 27x ROI warm lead strategy using personalized, short pitch emails that actually get replies.Stacy Covitz and Esai Arasi add insight into how to get freelance clients by nurturing relationships that lead to more referrals.Listen to learn more about:How to get freelance clients through specialized directoriesThe importance of positioning, proof, and why your marketing assets matterHow to combat the “trust recession” with testimonials, case studies, and portfoliosHow to turn a warm lead into a retainer clientHow to grow through referrals, community, and client resultsThis isn’t theory — it’s what’s working right now for real freelancers inside our community. Listen in and get inspired to position yourself where the clients are already looking.FREE Live  Masterclass: How to Build a Freelance Marketing Business You Actually LoveCalling all virtual assistants and marketing pros ready to stop doing random admin work and start offering strategic marketing services clients happily pay $35–$150/hour for. Join us for my free masterclass “How to Build a Freelance Marketing Business You Actually Love (And Pays Well)” on October 23.You’ll learn how to package your strengths, position yourself like a pro, and finally step into work that lights you up. >>Save your seat here!Links Mentioned in the Show: The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School isn’t your average VA setup course. It’s the only program that teaches the real marketing skills clients actually pay for—email, funnels, SEO, social media, even AI. In just 16 weeks, you’ll go from “just a VA” to a confident digital marketing pro with a portfolio to prove it. Doors open October 23. Class starts October 30. Save your spot at udmaschool.coma...

If you’ve ever walked away from a sales call thinking, “Ugh, I sounded so unsure of myself,” you’re not alone. Every freelancer has been there. But here’s the truth: your confidence is your most powerful marketing tool. And it shows up long before your proposal does.In this quick solo episode, I’m breaking down what really makes or breaks a sales call: your self-belief. This conversation is inspired by my brilliant friend Sarah Ashman, who said, “The first sale is always to yourself.” I’m sharing the story behind her feedback on interviewing virtual assistants, where the biggest red flag wasn’t lack of skills—it was lack of confidence.We’ll dig into why today’s market demands that you show up certain, grounded, and clear about your value. Listen to learn more about:Why confidence is the foundation of every successful sales call strategy for virtual assistantsWhat to say (and not say) on discovery calls that either builds trust or breaks it instantlyHow to rewire self-doubt so you stop underselling your skillsThe power of practicing with peers, mentors, and inside communities like the UDMA SchoolHow to show up as a confident partner & collaborator, not a nervous applicantYou can have all the marketing skills in the world, but if you don’t believe in yourself, no client will either. This episode is your reminder (and pep talk) to stop downplaying your value and start selling from a place of self-trust. You got this!Join my FREE live Masterclass: 5 Keys to Building a Freelance Marketing Business You Actually LoveCalling all virtual assistants who are ready to lean into marketing services and charge what you're actually worth – If you're tired of admin tasks and want to use your skills to offer strategic marketing work, my free masterclass on October 23 is for you. I'm breaking down the 5 Keys to Building a Freelance Marketing Business that Pays Well, including how to transition from generalist to specialist. This is your roadmap. >>Save your seat here!Links Mentioned in the Show: The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School isn’t your average VA setup course. It’s the only program that teaches the real marketing skills clients actually pay for—email, funnels, SEO, social media, even AI. In just 16 weeks, you’ll go from “just a VA” to a confident digital marketing pro with a portfolio to prove it. Doors open October 23. Class starts October 30. Save your spot at udmaschool.comDiscovery Calls for Virtual Assistants with Tracie Patterson #136

With this shifting economy, businesses aren’t just hiring task-doers—they’re hunting for problem solvers who understand strategy, systems, and results. Today I’m diving into the crossover skills that keep freelance service providers booked, referred, and recession-proof.We’re seeing many businesses cutting costs, hiring fewer employees, and leaning hard on contractors who can do more with less. The ones who can think strategically, wear multiple hats, and understand how marketing actually connects across platforms are the ones clients never let go.In this episode, I’m breaking down the five key crossover skills I discovered after analyzing over 3,000 freelance jobs inside my Digital Marketer’s Workgroup.Listen to learn more about:Why “jack of all trades” is your advantage and helps you rise above the competition in a lean team eraHow to position yourself as a problem solver (not a “button pusher”)Ways to use these skills to move up the freelance ladder, from general assistant to marketing manager or even fractional CMOMarketing your unique crossover skills to get hired for outcomes, not just tasksFreelancers who can connect the dots will always stay booked. This episode will help you shift how you market yourself, raise your rates, and step into your next-level role as an indispensable marketing partner. Sponsored by the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated—but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23, class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Save your spot at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show: FREE live training: 7 Ways to Land Clients as a Freelancer. Join us on October 15 to learn real strategies freelancers are using right now to book clients, market their skills, and grow their businesses. No more guessing how to land clients. Grab your seat here!Got a burning question about freelancing, digital marketing, or navigating this wild business journey? Ask Emily here: https://www.speakpipe.com/unicornsunite Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every...

Freelancers get stuck between wanting to look professional and protecting their pricing power. Welcome back to another Ask Emily Anything episode — my mini-series where I tackle your real freelancer questions. Today’s question came in a DM from Adam, who’s in corporate strategic communications, and he asked a good one: “When quoting a price for a potential client, do you prefer giving one total figure or itemized pricing?”Listen to learn more about:The psychology behind pricing and why showing “too much math” can backfire How to balance transparency and authority so you can educate your clients without giving them negotiation ammoStructuring your proposals for clarity and confidence (including the exact phrasing I use when presenting pricing)When itemized pricing actually makes sense, and a few exceptions to the ruleIf you’ve ever struggled with proposals, worried about sounding too expensive, or wondered how transparent you should be, tune in. I’m sharing what works in the real world and how to stop clients from treating your proposal like a takeout menu.Because remember: you’re not selling tasks, you’re offering a strategic solution. The right clients will always say yes to value.Sponsored by the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated—but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23, class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Save your spot at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show: FREE live training: 7 Ways to Land Clients as a Freelancer. Join us on October 15 to learn real strategies freelancers are using right now to book clients, market their skills, and grow their businesses. No more guessing how to land clients. Grab your seat here!Got a burning question about freelancing, digital marketing, or navigating this wild business journey? Ask Emily Anything here: https://www.speakpipe.com/unicornsunite Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. a...

Using AI in client work can save you time, spark ideas, and help you finally get ahead on that never-ending to-do list. But the wrong approach can blur boundaries, create awkward conversations, or even chip away at your clients’ trust.In this Ask Emily Anything episode, listener Danielle brings up a timely question: “As AI tools become part of everyday marketing work, what ethical considerations should we keep in mind, and when should we disclose AI use to clients?”Listen to learn more about:How to talk to clients about AI and explain where it fits in your processAI content ethics for marketing freelancers & the simple rule of thumb for when to discloseSmart contract and intake form language to protect yourself and your clientsHow to use AI tools to streamline your work while keeping your human creativity front and centerIf you’ve been side-eyeing AI and wondering how to use it responsibly, this episode’s for you. Tune in for the real-world do’s, don’ts, and gray areas of using AI in client work straight from a freelancer’s perspective on maintaining trust and your strong reputation.Sponsored by the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated—but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23, class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Save your spot at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show: FREE live training: 7 Ways to Land Clients as a Freelancer. Join us on October 15 to learn real strategies freelancers are using right now to book clients, market their skills, and grow their businesses. No more guessing how to land clients. Grab your seat here!Got a burning question about freelancing, digital marketing, or navigating this wild business journey? Ask Emily Anything! Leave a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/unicornsunite Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. a...

A client you admire tells you you’re not worth your rate… Ouch, right? That kind of feedback can rock your confidence and make you question everything, especially when you’re trying to grow your freelance business. But here’s the truth: no one else gets to decide your worth.In this Ask Emily Anything episode, I’m answering a powerful listener question from Nai, an operations assistant, who asked: “How do you keep momentum and show up confidently after receiving discouraging feedback from someone you look up to?”Listen to learn more about:The truth about negative feedback and why it’s about THEIR lens, not your worthPractical ways to articulate your value so you attract clients who happily pay your rateWhat to do when outcomes and client expectations don’t match upUsing this situation as a learning moment, not a confidence killer If you’ve ever felt knocked down by a client, a mentor, or even your own inner critic, this episode will give you the pep talk, strategy, and encouragement you need to stand tall. Keep building the business YOU want!Sponsored by the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated—but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23, class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Save your spot at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show: FREE live training: 7 Ways to Land Clients as a Freelancer. Join us on October 15 to learn real strategies freelancers are using right now to book clients, market their skills, and grow their businesses. No more guessing how to land clients. Grab your seat here!Got a burning question about freelancing, digital marketing, or navigating this wild business journey? Ask Emily Anything! Leave a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/unicornsunite Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply at a...

Are you still thinking like a “grateful doer” instead of the boss of your business? If you’ve ever felt stuck in the freelancer-to-CEO mindset shift, this episode is for you. In this Ask Emily Anything episode, listener Candice asks a question so many of us freelancers secretly struggle with: How do you actually make the transition in your brain from service provider to boss? It’s not just about raising your rates or slapping “CEO” in your bio. You have to own your expertise, set boundaries, and finally treat your freelance business like a business. I share my real journey (the rock bottoms, a-ha moments, and gradual pivots) that helped me shift out of the employee mindset, stop undervaluing my time, and step into my role as a confident business owner.Listen to learn more about:How to recognize the difference between being a freelancer-for-hire vs. a self-employed business ownerThe importance of tracking your time, setting boundaries, and stopping scope creep before it eats your profitThe “competence-confidence loop” that fuels your ability to raise rates, say no, and step into your CEO powerHow to reconnect with WHY you left corporate in the first place—and use that fire to fuel your boss mindsetIf you’ve been wondering how to stop playing small and finally embrace your role as the boss of your freelance business, you’ll want to hit play on this one. I hope it’ll flip the switch you’ve been waiting for.Sponsored by the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated—but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23, class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Save your spot at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show: Got a burning question about freelancing, digital marketing, or navigating this wild business journey? Ask Emily Anything! Leave a voicemail here: https://www.speakpipe.com/unicornsunite Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply at marketersworkgroup.comQuestion Submitted by Candice:Instagram:

I’ve got some tough love for you today: it’s 2025, and you can’t afford to not have a website. Clients are vetting freelancers harder than ever, and your site is the first thing that tells them whether you’re worth the investment. The goal isn’t just to throw one together; it’s to have a website that books clients.That’s why I invited Brand & Web Designer, Alyssa Downey, to join me in this episode. We’re walking you through the essentials of creating a website that isn’t just pretty but strategic, accessible, and designed to convert. Alyssa even echoes exactly what Laura Jawad teaches for SEO in episode #259: search engines and clients need to clearly understand what you do before they’ll take action. Creativity matters, but clarity comes first.Alyssa is the owner of Amp’d Designs®, helping businesses get noticed through bold, unforgettable Branding & Web Design that’s deeply rooted in strategy and business goals (and looks stunning, too). With over a decade of design experience, a BFA in Communications Design from Pratt Institute, and a background as an NYC art director, Alyssa brings both the strategy and the artistry. She’s also the founder of Make Your Design Matter®, where she empowers self-employed designers to grow thriving, confident businesses.Listen to learn more about:The number one most common website pitfall that’s costing you conversionsWebsite accessibility essentials that make your site usable for all visitorsTwo or three quick design tweaks that instantly make your website look more professionalWhat to focus on if you’re just starting and don’t have a website yetThe must-have homepage elements that build trust and help you land better clientsIf you’ve been procrastinating on your website (or wondering why the one you have isn’t booking clients), this episode is your wake-up call. Alyssa and I are giving you the practical steps to finally build a website that books clients. Tune in, take notes, and cross “launch my website” off your to-do list once and for all.Sponsored by the Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant SchoolAdmin work is getting automated—but marketing? That’s in demand everywhere. UDMA School is the only program that teaches you the exact skills clients are searching for: email marketing, funnels, SEO, social media, and even AI tools. You’ll learn how to do the high-value work that pays $35, $45, even $50+ an hour, plus get live support and access to a network of clients who need your skills. Doors open October 23, class starts October 30. Don’t stay stuck in low-paying admin work. Step into the skills businesses really need. >>Save your spot at udmaschool.comLinks Mentioned in the Show:Alyssa will be joining our Digital Marketer’s Workgroup to do live website audits in December. It’s your chance to get professional eyes on your site and walk away with actionable tweaks to make it truly client-ready. When you join the Workgroup, you’ll also plug into a tight-knit community of freelancers where you get behind-the-scenes conversations, real-time support, and troubleshooting every solo marketer needs. Plus, you’ll score advanced trainings,...

You can’t keep charging by the hour if you want to grow your service provider business. It’s time to package up your skills into high-ticket offers that show off your expertise and the transformation you bring to the table. I know raising your rates can feel scary, and sometimes it’s hard to even put into words the real value of what you do. I want you to step into those bigger offers with confidence, stop playing small, and get paid for the true impact you deliver!I’m joined by Stacey Brass-Russell, a Transformational Business and Life Coach who has helped hundreds of coaches, experts, and service providers build profitable, values-driven businesses. Stacey’s journey has taken her from Broadway actress to yoga studio owner to inspirational speaker and host of the Passionate & Prosperous podcast. Featured in Forbes, The New York Post, and Entrepreneur, and named one of NYC’s Top 15 Coaches, Stacey specializes in helping people create signature systems, master their message, and attract clients through authentic, service-based strategies.Listen to learn more about:Why moving away from “time for money” is the first step to creating high-ticket offersStacey’s Genius Edge framework — how to align your brilliance, your offers, and your marketingThe truth about the “trust recession” and how it impacts your ability to sell high-ticket offersPractical ways to shift your sales confidence so you can actually ask for (and get!) those bigger investmentsHow to position yourself as an indispensable PARTNER instead of just another service providerStop piecing together small projects or staying stuck at newbie VA rates. This episode will show you how to break through that ceiling and start selling the high-ticket offers that can truly change your business (and your life). Sponsored by Smart Client BrainTired of juggling 47 Google Docs, coffee-stained notebooks, and random call recordings? The Smart Client Brain is your all-in-one, searchable system for client notes. Set it up in under an hour, impress your clients, and finally feel organized. Grab the free 20-minute training PLUS templates to plug into your ChatGPTLinks Mentioned in the Show:Grab Stacey’s FREE High-Converting Event Playbook: learn how to build trust, highlight your expertise, and turn workshops into premium offers.Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!Connect with Stacey:Instagram:

What if your dream clients could find you instead of you chasing them down?When you use SEO for your service provider website to get found on Google, you build a client pipeline that works for you 24/7 (no algorithms required). You don’t have to dance on TikTok, post and pray on Instagram, or wait for referrals. This episode will show you a smarter, long-term way to book clients.I’ve got SEO strategist Laura Jawad on the show to spill the secrets. Laura knows this inside and out because she built two successful businesses with nothing but SEO before pivoting to help other women do the same. She’s a powerhouse strategist who specializes in helping female service providers and women-owned businesses turn their websites into client-attracting machines. With her background as a scientist-turned-entrepreneur, Laura combines analytical smarts with a passion for helping freelancers thrive.Listen to learn more about:How to know if your SEO is actually working & what metrics matter mostWhy long-tail keywords and local SEO are game changers for freelancersThree cornerstone blog posts every freelancer should have on their blogSimple first steps you can take right now to optimize your site for Google trafficHow ChatGPT is affecting SEO right nowThis episode will help you see SEO as more than just “another marketing task.” It’s the bow you tie on all your marketing activities & the piece that pulls everything together. It makes so much sense to not only apply SEO to your service provider business but to offer it to clients, too.Sponsored by Smart Client BrainTired of juggling 47 Google Docs, coffee-stained notebooks, and random call recordings? The Smart Client Brain is your all-in-one, searchable system for client notes. Set it up in under an hour, impress your clients, and finally feel organized. Grab the free 20-minute training PLUS templates to plug into your ChatGPTLinks Mentioned in the Show:Grab Laura’s free SEO Kickstart Kit: Take Your Website From Invisible To Irresistible With 5 Simple, Actionable SEO Checklists http://www.laurajawadmarketing.com/marketing-influencer Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!Connect with Laura:Instagram: @heylaurajawad Website: https://www.laurajawadmarketing.com/ LinkedIn: a...

Do test projects make you roll your eyes? Feel like you’re constantly jumping through hoops for low pay? You’re not alone and you’re not wrong for feeling that way. There’s a smarter way to approach these situations that actually opens doors, builds credibility, and leads to better-paying client relationships.In this episode, I’m talking with Lacey Cribb about how to approach freelance job applications, test projects, and contractor interviews with intention, especially when the initial budget isn’t ideal. She shares how she landed a dream role despite a low offer by playing the long game and delivering real value.Lacey is a launch and operations strategist, tech systems pro, and funnel whiz for coaches and online service providers. After leaving her corporate strategy role, Lacey built her freelance business from the ground up by leaning into referrals, showing up in the right rooms, and never being shy about sharing what she does (yes, even at the facial salon). Listen to learn more about:Why Lacey said “yes” to a lower-paid gig and how it opened massive doorsThe exact strategy she used to stand out and nail a test project (even on a tight budget!)How to talk about your freelance services in everyday convos and attract surprise clientsThe mindset shift that sets you apart when working with 6–7 figure business ownersWhy being active in coaching communities pays off in visibility, referrals, and clientsIf you’ve ever questioned whether an opportunity is worth it, or worried about getting stuck at the bottom of the pay scale, this conversation will help you see the bigger picture and make smarter, more confident decisions in your freelance journey.Sponsored by UDMA Self-Starter ProgramLearn the digital marketing skills, business setup, and client-finding strategies you need to launch a flexible, profitable freelance career—fast. The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School Self-Starter Program gets you up and running with paying clients in no time. Enroll now!Links Mentioned in the Show:Want to see the test project that helped Lacey land a competitive Operations Assistant retainer in 2025? Get the exact SOP + Loom walkthrough she submitted and see exactly how she tackled a high-level onboarding system test project with confidence (even when she hadn't used all the tools before).Join Our Digital Marketer's Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!Connect with Lacey:Instagram: @funnelbuildingstrategiesWebsite: https://laceycribb.com/ Facebook:

Ever sent a proposal… and heard crickets? Yeah, that ghosting game is real and frustrating. If you're losing momentum between the call and the contract, this episode walks you through the exact changes that turn proposals into "yeses."I brought in copywriter, launch strategist, and my real-life friend Brittany McBean to talk all things premium proposals. She’s breaking down what actually works when you’re trying to land high-ticket clients and how to use your proposal as a persuasive sales tool, not just a boring formality.Brittany McBean helps online course creators run wildly profitable launches with high-converting, anti-sleazy sales copy. She’s the behind-the-scenes brain for major names like Rick Mulready, Brandi Mowles, and Lattice Hudson, and she’s passionate about ethical marketing that uplifts marginalized voices. She’s known for helping freelancers like you productize premium services, shorten the sales cycle, and raise your rates without sounding desperate or pushy.Listen to learn more about:Why vague proposals are killing your conversion rate & what to include insteadThe 8 must-have sections every high-converting proposal needs (it’s not just price & deliverables)How to pre-frame your offer with one powerful post-sales call email that sets up your proposal for successThe red flags that make premium clients ghost you & the green flags they’re looking for!How to create a “sales page in disguise” that positions you as the expert, not the helpWe’re not about sleazy sales vibes here—Brittany’s approach is totally ethical, strategic, and straight-up smart. Whether you're charging $2,000 or $10,000 for your freelance services, this episode will help you show up like the confident, high-level marketer you are.Sponsored by UDMA Self-Starter ProgramLearn the digital marketing skills, business setup, and client-finding strategies you need to launch a flexible, profitable freelance career—fast. The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School Self-Starter Program gets you up and running with paying clients in no time. Enroll now!Links Mentioned in the Show:Join Brittany’s The Premium Proposal* program: Improve your process. Raise your prices. Work with better clients.Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network? Join The Digital Marketer’s Workgroup: a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!*My affiliate link. If you purchase this program, I could receive a small commission.>>Got a burning question about freelancing or digital marketing? Send me a voicemail & it could be featured in an episode. Don’t overthink...

If you’ve ever found yourself undercharging, overdelivering, and questioning your worth as a freelancer… THIS is the episode that will recalibrate your mindset and empower you to own your value like the Unicorn you truly are.I’m joined by my friend Caryn Gillen, a seasoned business coach for coaches who want to grow to $5K+ months without burnout or following someone else’s blueprint. With 15 years in the coaching space and 30+ years of business-building experience, Caryn helps clients build aligned, profitable businesses that actually feel good.In this episode, we dive into the weird limbo many freelancers live in where we run businesses but still feel like employees. If you’re stuck in the hourly-rate grind, juggling too much, or feeling undervalued, this convo is your reminder: you hold the power. Let’s talk about claiming it.Listen to learn more about:The invisible power dynamic between freelancers and clients—and why it keeps us stuckHow to shift from “just a helper” to a respected business owner (without being pushy or salesy)The real cost of freelancing and why most of us are undercharging (hint: you’re not factoring in everything your last employer paid for)What it means to “own” your business even if you’re still figuring it outWhy your clients actually want to pay you more when they understand your value (and how to help them see it)This isn’t your typical “charge your worth!” pep talk. This is a grounded, real-world convo about what it means to run a business and reclaim your time, energy, and income in the process. Ditch burnout pricing, stop over-functioning, and step into your Unicorn power.Sponsored by UDMA Self-Starter ProgramLearn the digital marketing skills, business setup, and client-finding strategies you need to launch a flexible, profitable freelance career—fast. The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School Self-Starter Program gets you up and running with paying clients in no time. Enroll now!Links Mentioned in the Show:Grab Caryn’s FREE 5 Easy Ways to Market Yourself as a Coach Guide: This will help you help your clients find more natural ways to market - ways that feel easier to them AND help their potential clients to really see your clients in their brilliance.Join The Digital Marketer’s Workgroup: Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network? Join a tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!>>Got a burning question about freelancing or digital marketing? Send me a voicemail & it could be featured in an episode. Don’t overthink it—just hit record here!Connect with Caryn:Instagram: a...

Is your digital marketing brain buzzing with course ideas, but you’re not sure where to start?If you’ve got skills to share and want a low-maintenance, high-visibility way to monetize them, this episode is for you. We’re diving into the world of course marketplaces—specifically how to sell courses on Udemy—with my guest and fellow unicorn Elizabeth Hambleton.Elizabeth is the Founder & CEO of Bonjour Branding, where she helps course creators and coaches turn their expertise into profitable and polished digital products. With over 35,000 students enrolled in her Udemy courses, she’s built a thriving education business rooted in smart strategy, storytelling, and connection. (And she’s also a proud member of our Digital Marketer’s Workgroup!)We’re peeling back the curtain on how to sell courses on Udemy even if you’re still doing client work and have zero desire to build a full-blown course empire. Whether you want to add a revenue stream, build credibility, or just dip your toes into passive income, this convo will definitely get your wheels turning (it totally did for me!).Listen to learn more about:How to sell courses on Udemy without building a massive tech stack or hiring a teamWhy Udemy can be a perfect visibility tool for freelance marketers and service providersSmart pricing and promotion strategies for a high-volume, low-ticket course modelThe differences between Udemy and Skillshare (and which is better for YOU)How to use Udemy as a launchpad for speaking gigs, client leads, and collab projectsIf you’ve ever said, “I could teach this,” but didn’t know where to start, this is the episode that shows you how. Get ready to rethink your skills, your income streams, and your visibility game.Sponsored by UDMA Self-Starter ProgramLearn the digital marketing skills, business setup, and client-finding strategies you need to launch a flexible, profitable freelance career—fast. The Unicorn Digital Marketing Assistant School Self-Starter Program gets you up and running with paying clients in no time. Enroll now!Links Mentioned in the Show:Check out Elizabeth’s courses on Udemy hereReady to turn your expertise into income? Get on a free call with her to find out if becoming a Udemy instructor is the right next step for you. Book here.Join The Digital Marketer’s Workgroup: Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network? Join our tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!>>Got a burning question about freelancing or digital marketing? Send me a voicemail & it could be featured in an episode. Don’t overthink it—just hit record here!Connect with...

Freelancer Visibility Series #6If you've ever felt frozen at the idea of putting yourself out there, you're not alone. Sweaty palms, second-guessing every word in the email, wondering “Who am I to pitch myself?” But visibility doesn’t come from waiting in the wings. It starts with one pitch. One message. One connection. In this episode, I’m showing you exactly how to pitch yourself as a freelance marketing service provider—without feeling like a sleazy PR bro.This is the final chapter in our Visibility Series, and it’s a big one. Whether you’re a digital marketing VA, copywriter, social media manager, or finally stepping into your full-blown marketing unicorn era, this episode is for you. I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to get seen, get booked, and get known as the go-to expert in your space.Plus, I'll share how I went from quietly engaging in online communities to landing a seat on Amy Porterfield’s mastermind stage. Hint: It wasn’t overnight, and it wasn’t luck. Listen to learn more about:The exact mindset shifts you need to confidently pitch yourself, even if you feel like a newbieWhy copy-paste pitch templates are killing your chances—and what to do insteadWhy genuine engagement and relationship-building beat cold pitching every time (and how it led to my biggest speaking gig)How to position your real, in-the-trenches experience as your strongest pitching superpowerMy favorite hacks for researching podcasts and writing standout pitches that position you as an easy YESIf you want to land dreamy podcast guest spots, client collaborations, or visibility ops that convert into premium clients, you need to know how to pitch yourself like the pro you already are. This episode breaks down the fears, the myths, and the exact steps to start booking those opportunities and becoming known for your marketing magic.Sponsored by AI Copywriter in a Box Struggling to create client content fast? Stop wasting time starting from scratch. AI Copywriter in a Box helps you craft high-converting, client-ready content in minutes—emails, social posts, sales pages, and more—all in your client’s unique voice. I use it myself to skip the endless revisions and get premium content done fast. Use my affiliate link & get $50 off with the code UNICORN. You can use the AI Copywriter for up to 4 different clients. Grab yours now!Links Mentioned in the Show:The Secret to Standing Out as a Freelance Marketer: Your Story Framework with Megan Yelaney #252The Final Piece of the Messaging Puzzle: Brand Voice & Personality with Jen Liddy #253 Check out my Press Page for inspo! See real examples of where I've landed and how I’ve positioned myself as an “easy yes.”ChatGPT for YouTube extension: https://chatgpt4youtube.com/Join The Digital Marketer’s Workgroup: Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network?...

Freelancer Visibility Series #5Think your brand messaging is "fine"? Think again. If your content still sounds like a generic VA or a watered-down version of your mentor, you’re missing out on paid opportunities, real alignment, and meaningful client connection. The missing piece? Your true brand voice. It's time to bring your personality front and center.In this Visibility Series episode, I’m joined by Jen Liddy—Brand Voice & Messaging Strategist and creator of The YOU-Algorithm™, a human-first messaging process. After recovering from teaching high school and college English, Jen took her nerdy Word Powers into marketing and never looked back. Now she helps experts and service providers pull out their brilliance and translate it into words their audience can actually hear (instead of scrolling past).Together, we’re diving deep into what makes brand messaging truly magnetic. Hint: it’s not about being louder, perkier, or performing jazz hands on Instagram. Jen shares why your brand voice is the final, most powerful piece of the messaging puzzle and how to use it to connect, convert, and stand out without pretending to be someone you’re not.Listen to learn more about:Why your voice (not just your value) is what actually sells your servicesHow to identify and embrace your brand personality—even if you hate the spotlight!What outdated messaging from 2020 still lurks on service provider websites & how to fix itWhy your marketing content might sound like AI wrote it and how to humanize it ASAPHow brand messaging evolves with your niche, and why it’s okay to "shed" as you growIf your content sounds more like a template than a real human, this episode will help you put the personality back in your brand messaging and finally connect in a way that feels real.Sponsored by AI Copywriter in a Box Struggling to create client content fast? Stop wasting time starting from scratch. AI Copywriter in a Box helps you craft high-converting, client-ready content in minutes—emails, social posts, sales pages, and more—all in your client’s unique voice. I use it myself to skip the endless revisions and get premium content done fast. Use my affiliate link & get $50 off with the code UNICORN. You can use the AI Copywriter for up to 4 different clients. Grab yours now!Links Mentioned in the Show:Grab Jen’s The YOU-Algorithim™ positioning GPT for free with code UNICORNGPT. Unlock Your Differentiator: use this unique brand positioning tool to unlock the message only you can say! This custom GPT + mini training uncovers your one-of-a-kind brand differentiators so you can easily explain what you do, position yourself without over explaining or shouting louder, create messaging that clicks with your people - clearly & confidently.We compared two of our friends in the online space who both teach how to write better copy, but they have very different brand voices & personalities: Marisa Corcoran @mtoni and Sam Burmeister @nomad.copy Join The Digital Marketer’s Workgroup: Are you already...