Shows
Better WordsOur 2025 favouritesWe were lucky enough to record this episode together in a studio at Vanishing Point Records in Chesterfield. We kick off with a wrap-up of our reading stats for the year: how many books and pages, the moods and re-reads.*Accessed through our work/from the publisher2024 debut book:Caitlin: The Heir Apparent by Rebecca Armitage*Michelle: Confessions by Catherine Airey*Non-fiction:Michelle: John and Paul: A Love story in Songs by Ian L...
2026-01-051h 37
AmplifyHow to handle the money (nonprofit)Oddly enough, non profits run very much like “for profits” with one notable exception:
💰 The “profit” (yes, 501c3 entities should “gain” money each month) doesn’t go to shareholders, it rolls back into ministry.
(As a result, non profits complete different tax forms, etc…)
🤔
So, in this talk we walk through a similar financial framework as we did for “for profit” organizations (see the previous talk).
And, we highlight five commonalities between the two…
👇
Find your groove, get a plan, and “build it like the ant.”
🐜🐜🐜🐜🐜
2025-07-1646 min
AmplifyHow to handle the money (for profit business)As we wind-down the “business side of it” series we tackle the topic of money. You earn it, so you need to know how to manage it…
💸
(This is the first half of a two-part mini-series. In this talk we walk through managing the finances of a for-profit business. In the next we tackle nonprofits, as well as highlight five common threads between both types of organizations.)
🎯
If you’re stressing about finances— and wondering how to manage the cash flow…
… this module will help.
👇👇👇
Does this strategy take...
2025-07-0940 min
AmplifyServe people long-term by having clearly defined next best stepsMost content creators and communicators think only in terms of finding new leads— first time customers. That’s a valid source of business, and we should find pathways for people to come in closer and learn about how we can serve them at a higher with our ideas…💡
But, it’s important to provide people clear next steps to continue moving forward. That is, don’t overlooking EXISTING customers.
💥
If you have a strategy to lead people “all the way” through your ecosystem, many of them will take the journey with you.
An industry st...
2025-07-0228 min
AmplifyWho will pay for your ideas?Three factors affect your capacity to grow your online business
1️⃣ SERVE
= you must consistently add value to others
2️⃣ SYSTEMS
= you need processes that continue moving people forward, automatically, such that the next person into your product / program gets the same experience as the first
To be clear, you are serving PEOPLE…
… but you need PROCESSES that help them understand what to do next AND lead them there.
(i.e., you CAN go high-tech AND high-touch at the same time— and that should be part of your...
2025-06-2525 min
AmplifyFlip the script (in your head)In order for people to do business with us (so we can get paid for what we know), THEY need to know a few things…
⚙️ What you do— the problem you solve & the potential you lead people to
📣 They must be able to repeat that in their own words, so they can remember you
🚀 They must believe you have a clear path that can help them “level up” and get results, that if they walk your path they will get to where they want to be…
Furthermore, we must remember that these f...
2025-06-1831 min
AmplifyMoney isn’t your biggest business problem (even if it’s the most obvious)Money SEEMS to be the biggest problem when it comes to business. Or, the biggest need.
Everything comes with a price. Computers, software, salaries…
… it all cost cash.
💰
Money might be the most obvious need you have, but it’s not the most OVERT issue.
In this talk— still in the “business side of it” series, we walk through FOUR things every business (even in the idea / thought leader space) needs…
1️⃣ Revenue
2️⃣ Reach 3️⃣ Results
4️⃣ Reputation
… and we start talking about where revenue fits in...
2025-06-1127 min
Amplify3 more reasons people don’t buy your stuffIn this talk, we pick up where we left off in the previous…
👇
Why is your content SO POWERFUL (it really is), so much that you KNOW it will help people “level-up” their business, their parenting, their fitness, their spiritual growth, their [insert whatever your topic of expertise is]…
… yet they don’t take action?
🤷♂️
Here are three more elements to consider— as well as tips to overcoming these objections.
🎯 You haven’t identified the ideal customer for the product or program you are selling.
🤔 You haven’t cl...
2025-06-0435 min
Amplify3 reasons people don’t buy your stuffThere are at least six reasons people don’t buy your “ideas” in the thought leader / information space. In this episode we walk through three, followed by three more in the next.
Here are the first three…
🧭 They’re at a different place than what you’re offering. That is, they may not be a prospect for your goods or services.
(If this is the case, don’t push them… but do encourage and serve them.)
💭 They can’t envision themselves doing it— that is, they don’t think they can get results for wha...
2025-05-2827 min
AmplifyWhere, why, what, how… to show value (not price)Today we’re talking more about pricing your ideas as you “put them out there” and start getting paid for what you know.
After determining your price point, you need to clearly demonstrate the value to others.
Here’s the path forward, including—
📌 Where
🤷♂️ Why
🏁 What
⚙️ How
__________
Notes & next steps
This training comes from Amplify Pro— try this on-demand coaching program just for just $1— www.AmplifyOnline.info/1
Access the complete “How to Get Paid for What You Know” course at https://www.amplifyonline.info/HTGP...
2025-05-2119 min
AmplifyHow to price your ideasHow much should your ideas cost the average consumer who wants to “buy” them?
It’s a loaded question. And, it calls us to ultimately settle on a price.
💰
Here are a few things to remember about pricing your content—
👀 We typically undervalue our own stuff, because we underestimate the knowledge gap, which results in under-pricing it
And…
💥 There are at least four factors that can help you determine how to set the price (without having to “pull it out of thin air).
And…
🎨 🧪 Pricing is re...
2025-05-1430 min
AmplifyLag measures vs. lead measures— and what you really need to trackA short episode today…
Almost included it the info WITH one of the others, but this topic seems to stand on its own. So, it merits space of its own.
Here’s why.
👇
It’s easy to confuse LAG measure with LEAD measures.
Or, to say it another way, it’s easy to confuse the “outcome” with the elements that create the outcomes— the causes with the consequences.
🤔
When it comes to “the business side” of getting paid for what you know, a lot of thought leaders a...
2025-05-0714 min
AmplifyA practical spreadsheet to build a better business planI used to hate math. Turns out, when it comes to doing the “business side of it,” math is your friend.
Especially when you have a spreadsheet.
🎯
We continue talking about getting paid for what you know in this ultra-practical episode, walking through a spreadsheet (based on the eight questions outlined in episode 1 of the series), highlighting two actual businesses…
⚜️
A few things to keep in mind…
1️⃣ Look at the leads and conversion percentages…
They are PART of the business model. You can just count “sales,” y...
2025-04-3028 min
AmplifyA review of what needs to be on your sales pageIn this talk we back-up and do a quick review of what needs to be on your sales page— focusing on the offers you can make…
… it’s ALL part of “getting paid for what you know” and doing the business side of it.
Remember, people must know the PROBLEM you solve and the POTENTIAL you lead them towards.
They must also know how to take action and move forward— how to engage your services.
And, they need a clear “menu” of products that helps them identify the way you can serve them...
2025-04-2328 min
Amplify8 questions to ask yourself as you build the business modelSeveral years ago, I stumbled upon the reason you need to “do the math” very early as you begin projecting your business revenue. This idea isn’t originally mine— at all. I just didn’t see it until a business opportunity “forced me” to take a closer look.
I learned there were EIGHT questions we needed to ask in order to make the thing work…
👇
1️⃣ What income goal do you want to hit?
2️⃣ What specific products / programs do you currently have that you can sell— and what is their exact price point?
3️⃣...
2025-04-1626 min
Book BumbleListener's Choice - Season 3, Episode 14Send us a textIn this episode, our stack of books is tied together with the common theme of being Listeners Choice books! We reached out and asked for your suggestions and recommendations, and boy did you deliver! We can’t use them all at once, but keep listening, because we are going to use some of your other picks in upcoming episodes!Featured Books:Birdie and Harlow: Life, Loss, and Loving My Dog So Much I Didn’t Want Kids…Until I Did by Taylor Wolfe (LH) - recommen...
2025-01-2241 min
AmplifyMany life coaches coach the wrong stuff— here’s how to fix it! | How to coach so clients get results, #2 of 2A lot of life-coaching (and business coaching and “other things” coaching) jumps the tracks because we disconnect the daily work from the goal. And when we do that, we start focusing on the LAG measures rather than the LEAD measures.
Or, to say it another way, we look at the scoreboard (or the scale or the profit margin or the whatever) rather than focus on the “very next play.”
🤯
As a coach, you must steer your client towards the daily tasks, the grind— these are the “lead measures” (everyone becomes enamored with the “lag measures...
2025-01-0733 min
AmplifyHow to coach so your clients make progress | How to coach so clients get results, #1 of 2About to coach someone?
You need to take time and help your client figure out what the “end goal” looks like for them. (This may even reveal whether or not they’re a good fit for you / you’re a good fit for them.)
👀 Observation: just because we’re all going to the SAME PLACE with your framework doesn’t mean it looks the same to each of us. 👀
This includes the expectations (and dreams) they have— if everything worked perfectly— for ALL of the following, even if you are coaching them about bus...
2024-12-3137 min
AmplifyIs anybody actually listening to what you say? | A-B-Cs of getting paid for what you know #3 of 3Leaders often ask, “What part of my content do I share?”
Some suggest to “share the what and sell the how.”
Others contend you should give “the first half” away and sell the rest (whatever that means).
Here’s what we teach:
1️⃣ Share ALL of your content free (i.e., via your podcast and/or blog)
2️⃣ Share it OUT OF ORDER and in BITE-SIZED pieces
Here are a few keys we review in this talk:
🔑 1. BASED on your framework— which is why articulating your framework was / is the...
2024-12-2437 min
AmplifyThe right kind of digital real estate you need | A-B-Cs of getting paid for what you know #2 of 3It’s a little odd that the “building an online biz” almost ALWAYS shifts to questions about social media and YouTube and everything EXCEPT building the one thing you actually own, a website.
In this talk we tackle “B” in the A-B-Cs of getting paid for what you know and talk about what you need to on a website.
If you’re listening in, here’s what to look for…
⭐️ Clean & clear & concise = states the problem and potential in a clear one-liner “above the fold”
📬Capture contact info = has at least one opt-in with...
2024-12-1729 min
AmplifyThe first step in monetizing your expertise | A-B-Cs of getting paid for what you know #1 of 3Here are the four aspects of getting paid for what you know:
⚜️ A = Architect your framework
🖥️ B = Build your home base
📣 C = Communicate regularly
💰D = Deliver your core products & programs
In this talk, we’ll tackle the first…
Remember: You don’t just share information, you lead people towards a transformation.
This transformation might be:
👉 An elusive result / goal (i.e., losing weight)
👉 A new skill (playing guitar, photography)
👉 An internal transformation (mental or emotional healing + health)
👉 Perspective to...
2024-12-1028 min
AmplifyTwo kinds of content “maps” you can create + examples | How to create your content framework #3 of 3As opposed to simply spouting out information, you want to take people on a journey, an intentional trip that is—
🎯 Targeted— it has a goal
♻️ Transformative— it creates real change in their lives, for the good
👉 Teaching— it DOES impart wisdom to them
There are TWO primary ways to create this process of intentional transformation:
1️⃣ INCLUSIVE framework = they can tackle the progress points in any order
2️⃣ LINEAR framework = they must go in order, as subsequent steps build on the previous.
Whichever way you go (and we provide e...
2024-12-0333 min
AmplifyProvide a clear path from present problems to untapped potential | How to create your content framework #2 of 3Your content— if you plan to get paid for what you know— must take people on a journey from where they are to where they want to be in some precise area of life.
(This framework “works,” regardless of what you’re teaching, by the way.)
Here’s what you need to show people…
👇
🏁 POTENTIAL = The destination, a clearly defined place you take people
⁉️ PROBLEM you solve, the thing keeping them back
🧭 PATH to move them from where they are now to that preferred location (their potential)
📌 PR...
2024-11-2641 min
AmplifyDon’t sell a seat on the plane, sell the destination | How to create your content framework #1 of 3It’s super-easy, as a content-creator, to build a course OR write a book OR shoot a video OR launch a live event…
… and then get the messaging wrong.
🤷♂️
Many times we get SO enamored with what we’ve created that we begin describing THE PRODUCT rather than defining the destination and detailing the problems we help people overcome.
🤯
I’ve done it. You’ve probably done it, too.
It’s only natural.
After all, we stress over the fonts and colors and background music and poste...
2024-11-1932 min
Sappenin’ Podcast with Sean SmithEP. 303 - Tom Jenkins | Live @ 2000 Trees Festival 2024Misery in Comfort. Wales' folk-country-emo triple threat, Straight Lines frontman and renowned sheep shearer, Tom Jenkins, is our guest on Episode 303 of Sappenin' Podcast! Recorded live on stage at 2000 Trees Festival 2024, the hauntingly moving songwriter serenades a capacity crowd tent, with personal confessions on his solo artist journey, happiness hacks and the podcasts first ever singalong performance. In this conversation, Jenkins opens up to the audience on Welsh valley work ethics, music vs farming schedules, festival soil compaction, his love letter verse to Brain Fallon (The Gaslight Anthem), confusing last names, the art of birthing sheep, guitar hunting in...
2024-09-131h 05
I'll Read What She's ReadingNon Spicy Book RecommendationsThis week the girls are diving into a treasure trove of non-spicy book recommendations perfect for every mood and occasion. From heartwarming romances and immersive fantasies, we've got a curated list that promises to entertain without the heat. Whether you're looking for a gentle escape, a cozy night in, or a book to share with friends and family, tune in to discover your next favorite read. Happy listening and happy reading!Romance non spicy Recs: 5:35 - 25:36These violent delights- Chloe Gong...
2024-07-1049 min
AmplifyAll the things you need to pull off a great launch | Launching 3The first online promo you do will be hard. But, it WILL get easier AND you’ll get better at it.
It helps, though, if you have a list of what you need— a checklist— to work from. There are nine things you need to have in place.You also need to determine a pricing strategy.
Generally, you can charge more when selling to a business than an individual, and you can charge more when your product / program creates a financial return for the client.
We often reference the specific numbers, listed in the podca...
2024-06-2017 min
AmplifyWhat to do during all three phases of your launch | Launching #2Most online creators, book writers, coaches, and other people in the online space don’t “ramp up” or “warm up” to a new promotion. They just “throw it out there” and see who buys.
As a result, many launches— no, most— fall flat.
That’s because they neglect the three phases of a solid promotion:
1️⃣ Pre-launch (i.e., what happens BEFORE you promote the product or program)
2️⃣ Launch (this is where we usually focus our energy only)
3️⃣ Post-launch (what happens afterwards)
With the right plan in place, you can actually b...
2024-06-1325 min
AmplifyHow & when & why you need a content calendar first | Launching #1If you’re going to sell anything anywhere (whether it’s online or in a “brick & mortar”) you must let people know you’re open for business. Launching (that is, promoting) your products and program is one way to do this.
Here, we discuss two types of promotions— open and closed. And, we talk about why it might be better to go with the counter-intuitive approach of a “closed” launch.
We also discuss pricing strategies for group programs, why you shouldn’t drop the price (raise it instead), and why “free trials” are often the wrong way to go…
2024-06-0618 min
AmplifyThe message > the medium | Lessons learned 11Comparison CAN BE the “thief of joy,” but it can ALSO show you what’s possible. Sometimes we see in others something we can replicate for ourselves.
A few years ago I met the Oola Guys, Dave & Troy. Some of their ideas— and conversations with them— helped me see what’s possible for myself. 
After discussing that chance encounter, I outline a few other concepts related to multiplying & monetizing your message….
Things like these three—
✅ The message is more important than the medium
You can repurpose your core message into nu...
2024-05-2331 min
AmplifyRecurring revenue streams & repurposing content | Lessons learned 9 & 10Years ago, a friend asked me to shoot some videos (about the compensation plan for a home-based business) for a smartphone app. I grabbed the book I wrote on the subject, carried it to the front porch of my house, and shot 16+ short videos using an iPhone.

Then, I edited them, dropping in a few slides I rebranded from the book, making the vidoes look like a one-of-a-kind offer.
We later learned how to use free opt-ins (re: lead magnets) to invite people to purchase them in other forms…… and I learned...
2024-05-1626 min
AmplifyGive your best stuff away | Lessons learned 7 & 8For the next few minutes I want to talk about how to repurpose content in multiple ways to bolster your online presence, an easy strategy to share free pieces of the content to drive people back to paid products, and why you don’t need to shirk back from giving your best stuff away.
I learned this tactic when I filmed The Healing Workshop about 8 years ago…
During the editing phase for the online course, I began pulling “short clips” I could transform into blog posts and social media clips. I used them to direct peo...
2024-05-0927 min
AmplifyRepurpose your message w/ the right processes in place | Lessons learned 5 & 6All content isn’t equal (some messages matter more than others). For example, showing someone how to find & fulfill their purpose on this planet is more important— I think— than showing them what needs to go on a website (even though I have books & courses that teach both).
Here’s what’s interesting, though: the same processes work for all content. In other words, if you learn HOW to do it in one lane, you can transfer those principles to other. Or, if you see someone doing it well, you can clone their systems.
I learned th...
2024-05-0221 min
AmplifyStart sharing, begin selling, quit postponing | Lessons learned 3 & 4We rarely go from “point A” to “point B.” Most of the time, we (all) travel something better.
Picking up where we left off on the previous talk…
… the first book opened doors to other books, resources I hadn’t considered when I first began promoting the first message.
And then THAT led to even more opportunities, like leading workshops and seminars. There are multiple reasons we teach that you should START with the book— not STOP with it by aspiring to eventually “get to it” and write one.
When you write a book...
2024-04-2526 min
AmplifyThe untapped potential of continuing to work on your message | Lessons 1 & 2Though I had written and talked and done other things in the “communication space” for years, I hadn’t actually thought about monetizing it until just over a decade ago when I went on a business trip to Hawaii. After that, I wrote a book, sold it on my website, and shipped it from the local post office.
Generally, Salter joined me— since he knew I would always stop at the coffee shop at some point during the errand.

I learned that— for many of us— self-publishing the book is THE BEST way to get the mes...
2024-04-1816 min
AmplifyTurn your weekly talk into a month+ of online content | Gear Up 6Churches are "always on," yet you can't be. You need an "off time. We teach you to distinguish between projects (things that occur once a season or once a year) AND processes (things that happen repeatedly).
When you automate the processes-- recurring events such as visitor follow-up, staff meeting times, etc.-- you not only create mental margin, you also free your energy to focus on the things that matter the most.
This means you must distinguish between projects and processes— most church leaders never think about either one, let alone calendar them and create sys...
2024-04-1144 min
Amplify5 things that can either help or hinder your church’s growth | Gear Up 5The five facets of the church framework matter EQUALLY as much as the others. So, rather than working through a step-by-step process, you've got to touch on each of them at the same time, continuing to refine the whole.
In the same way a "locked cog" can stop an engine (and, in the same way a super-fast one can't speed it up any quicker than the other cogs go!), so also must you move each gear in the framework forward together.
A few things to keep in mind…
Every church’s (and n...
2024-04-0422 min
AmplifyHow to build a discipleship framework / life transformation path | Gear Up 4Your mission with the discipleship framework needs to be…
👇
Deploy your people back on mission. Don’t see “filling your building” as the end goal. Empower people to go back into the community with the resources of the church.
7 things to note about this process…
#1 = People want to know the next step— they don’t want to be controlled or forced, but they do want to be shown.
Examples—
⚾️ Rick Warren’s “bases” (Purpose-Driven Church)
📈 Growth Track (Church of the Highlands / ARC)
⚛️ Transformation (Word Alive...
2024-03-2826 min
AmplifyMost church leaders spend too much time on social media AND do it backwards (a fast remedy) | Gear Up 3Here’s the first thing you need to know about social media…
👇
📳 Social media = should lead them TO your site and not FROM your site (i.e., never send people to Facebook or YouTube).
(If you understand this, you’re ahead of 90+% of all other thought leaders.)
Why you don't want to build your home base on social media
In Amplify we teach several reasons not to build your home base on social media (and we show you how to best use it). Here are a few reasons no...
2024-03-2128 min
Amplify7 website errors your church or ministry might be making (+ quick fixes) | Gear Up 2There are 7 common errors churches make on their website…
And, those mistakes often hinder their growth, b/c people visit your website before they ever attend your church. The online world is the new “front door.”
Here’s the run-down…
The mistakes
❌ Mistake 1, Insider information = using words, acronyms, abbreviations and other ways to communicate that the average person you are trying to reach does not understand.
❌ Mistake 2, Not recognizing who is coming to your site = forgetting to organize it in such a way that the newest person can quickly find out who you are...
2024-03-1434 min
AmplifyDetermine what a fully devoted disciple looks like— and show people | Gear Up 1Most leaders who register for our Gear Up course or Gear Up resources do so to learn about using technology and communication for their church / ministry.
But that’s not where we begin.
We will show you how to do that, but you don’t want the “tail to wag the dog.” The technology is only a tool.
In the same you would wouldn’t allow a microphone to determine your message, you don’t want the technology to lead in your church. Integrate it into your mission and use it as a tool.
2024-03-0725 min
AmplifyMore tips on starting from scratch onlineContinued from the previous episode…
What to do if you’re starting (or re-starting) from scratch in the online space.
✅ #6 = Use social media to drive people to your site-- not AWAY from your site.
(Template available at www.AmplifyOnline.info/365)
✅ #7 = Special notes for 501c3 / nonprofit organizations
Pay attention here if even if you aren't a 501c3, because some of these will apply to you.
✅ #8 = Live videos... instagram, stories, facebook, reels, etc...
Use the template for your strategy.
✅ #9 = Do an actual lau...
2024-02-2923 min
AmplifyHow to start from scratch in the online space, part 1 of 2I had lunch with a friend one day and learned he was about to launch a new book.
The problem was…
📙The book wasn’t ready for publication
🖥️ He didn’t have a pay-wall on his website to collect money and deliver content to people who paid for his videos that accompany the book
⚙️His team routinely bucked against any written down system
⁉️He didn’t know where to begin
I began sketching out— on a piece of paper— what I would do if I was starting from scratch. In reality, though...
2024-02-2233 min
AmplifyClarify your message, honor your old content, serve others intentionally (w/ Andy Mason)I met Andy Mason mid-2023. We’re in the same Facebook group, because we use the same software for our websites, emails, podcasts, courses, and more.
Eventually, we began working together (we share the story of how & why in the podcast— which originally aired on Andy’s site, Heaven in Business.
In this talk we discuss:
📣 The importance of your message— and why you want to protect it rather than focusing on the tech
(i.e., no speaker thinks the microphone IS the message, yet— in the online world— we often exclusi...
2024-02-1543 min
AmplifyAnd now we talk the MECHANICS of writing the book (w/ Chris Massie)In talk #2 with first-time author, Chris Massie, we jump into the mechanics of actually writing the book…
Yes, you need the MESSAGE and you need the MECHANICS.
👇
Chris talks about the importance of realizing that some things are hard because they’re “hard,” and other things are difficult because they’re just new…
He talks about shifting into a “student mentality” so you can reach greater levels of success…
He discusses how to know when it’s “good enough” and it’s ready to ship— and when it’s not.
And, when you shoul...
2024-02-0128 min
AmplifyA first time author talks about dialing in his MESSAGE to write the book (w/ Chris Massie)Chris Massie attended the live recording of the Amplify workshop when we created it a few months ago— before we went live with the Amplify site. While attending, he said, “I’m ready to write my book, now… I’ll get started when I get home.”
He had been coaching and speaking… and even writing blocks and emails for a season. At some point, in the training, it clicked, “I DO have a message, and this is it…”
(Oddly enough, the MESSAGE is part 1 of the Amplify framework— and though we can help you clarify AND communicate it, it...
2024-01-2536 min
Amplify4 reasons self-publishing may be your best betIn this episode we continue our discussion on making & marketing your own book. In the previous talk we discussed myths & misconceptions about self-publishing.
Let’s go further.
First there are five realities you need to know about traditional publishing.
✅ Your publisher will get you some PR, placement in stores, etc., but...
✅ You still have to market your own book.
✅ You might or might not get an advance... which will need to be paid back AND there may be other expenses you incur.
✅ Yes, you may need to hir...
2024-01-1841 min
AmplifyMyths & misconceptions about self-publishingFor the majority of writers, self-publishing is THE BEST way to go— it enables you to maintain control of your message as you begin making an impact with your ideas.
(Plus, it’s faster than traditional publishing AND it may be easier for you to find a publisher if you have a book that’s already in print and has a track record of selling. You can contract your self-published book as a re-print to a traditional publisher.)
There are FIVE misconceptions you need to know about self-publishing—
❌ Some people say it isn’t legi...
2024-01-1132 min
Brave Little StateWhy do people like Phish? (Encore)
We journey into the weird world of Vermont's favorite jam band to explore the culture of "phandom” and Phish’s early roots in our brave little state.We originally released this episode in 2021. In it, Ethan Weinstein of South Woodstock asks: “Why do people like Phish? And how did they become such a big part of Vermont music culture?”(Heads up: There’s a bit of profanity in this episode, and some discussion of drugs and drug culture.)To see photos of Phish from their earl...
2024-01-0455 min
AmplifyWrite the book for impact, as well as income (or just save your time & energy)We ALWAYS suggest that writers, speakers, coaches, communicators (and others) START with the book…
“Don’t aspire to eventually write the book,” we say. “START with the book.”
Here’s why— once you write the book you have all the content you need for everything else you need to teach, lead, guide, speak, promote…
And by everything, we mean EVERYTHING.
At the same time, there’s not— for the most part— a lot of money to be made in books.
Unless you leverage the book to make a bigger impact, that is. With the right stra...
2024-01-0430 min
AmplifyWhy you need a book launch team + what do do when you get one (Book Launch Timeline 3 of 3)One of the most important, overlooked aspects of the launch = your launch team…
Not only will it enable you to increase your reach, but the launch team will also help you refine your message.
Notably, this works TWO ways, including what they do FOR YOU and what you do FOR THEM.
Here’s what your request of the team—
⭐️ #1 = Reacting to each of your posts during the pre-launch and launch week.
If people comment on some and re-share some, that’s a massive help.
⭐️ #2 = Buying the book the week...
2023-12-2832 min
AmplifyWhat to do T-minus 10 weeks up until your book is available (Book Launch Timeline 2 of 3)We continue talking about what to do to make sure people know about your book when it goes live for sale…
(If you haven’t listened to the previous episode, go there to get the “other half” of this one.)
Here’s your timeline— counting down to your launch:
-10 = begin posting 2x per week about the book directly, 36:27
-9 = recruit your launch team… will begin meeting in week t-6, 38:27
-8 = finalize book endorsers and initial website reviews, 40:17
-7 = begin emailing your list 2x per week about the proj...
2023-12-2129 min
AmplifyWhy you need to launch the book & what to do 5 months out… (Book Launch Timeline 1 of 3)Most writers think about creating the book, but we don’t think about “launching it” and getting it out there. But, if we want people to read it, we’ve got to let them know it’s available…
That’s the topic of this podcast series.
🚀
Here’s why you should prepare for— and then execute— your launch:
📘 You live with the book for months— but others do not. Invite them into your process.
📘 People connect with people— not products. This enables them to connect with you.
📘 The process builds anticipati...
2023-12-1446 min
AmplifyThe workflow that enables you to raise money while focusing on the mission (Grant Writing 5 of 5)One of the best way to view grant-writing (and see how to “win” even when you don’t get the grant) is this:
⭐️ When you write a grant proposal you have the opportunity to put the mission of your organization into the hands of someone who has decided that THEIR MISSION is to fund organizations like yours. ⭐️
And sometimes the timing is right and your mission and their mission intersect. Other times it doesn’t. And a “no” doesn’t always mean “no forever.”
So…
Develop a workflow that actually works— so you can do this ul...
2023-12-0738 min
AmplifyWhen & how to apply for grants (Grant Writing 4 of 5)After learning WHO you can apply to for a grant, as well as WHAT goes into a request, you need to tackle the HOW and WHEN questions. We outline them both in this episode…
First let’s talk HOW…
📫#1 = Some, you send in the mail
🖥️ #2 = Increasingly, more are going to online applications
Note: don’t discount “mail in.” Those are the ones for which we’ve received some of our highest awards.
Next, let’s talk WHEN…
📌 #1 = Anytime applications (send at any point in the year)
📌 #2 = Specific...
2023-11-3035 min
AmplifyEight (more) things that need to be in a winning grant proposal (Grant Writing 3 of 5)In the previous episode we talk about eight OBJECTIVE items you need for every grant proposal.
Here, we outline eight SUBJECTIVE items, each related to your specific request.
You could also think of them like this:
💙 The 8 objective items are related to your organization and its health / solvency / legitimacy
💙 The 8 subjective items are related to your specific project
Here are the eight related to the project:
#1 = Title of this specific request project
#2 = How this fits with the foundation / grant- makers strategic priorities
#3...
2023-11-2331 min
AmplifyEight things you must have to file for a grant (Grant Writing 2 of 5)Every grant you write will require these EIGHT things…
(So, make a filing system, keep them handy… and, if you don’t have them, acquire them, bc you absolutely MUST have them.)
#1 = 501c3 verification
#2 = Form 990 (at least the most recent year, two is better)
#3 = Financials— for the previous 2 years, or as much as you have if you’re less than 2 years old
#4 = Annual budget (1 page summary)
#5 = Organization name
#6 = Mission of organization (200 words)
#7 = Short history of organization (500 words)
#8 = Board of directors
++++++++...
2023-11-1628 min
AmplifyWho the grant makers are & where to find them (Grant Writing 1 of 5)I don’t know if any nonprofit leader that got in it because they wanted to spend their time raising money. They ALL got into it for the mission-- for the impact they want to make.
But...
The mission requires money.
And you can only take the mission as far as the money will propel it.
🚀
One of the best ways to build your financial base…
… is grants.
You need to learn how to write them— and win them.
🏆
In this new se...
2023-11-0938 min
AmplifyPotential = What you really “sell”— greater than a product or service (Infinite ROI 4 of 4)Money is an exchange of one item of value for another. In business, it’s an exchange of the potential you deliver. The more clear the value proposition is, the greater the profits will likely be.
👆
That’s the “core concept” for point #3 on the Infinite ROI pathway.
Here’s why it matters…
Most of us aren’t clear about what we do. Sure, we know the PRODUCT or SERVICE we sell, but we don’t readily articulate it in terms of what that product or service actually achieves for people.
And...
2023-10-2649 min
AmplifyPersonal Background = What they really want to know about your before taking action (Infinite ROI 3 of 4)Let’s start here: everyone doesn’t need to know your “greatest hits” highlight reel… yet (in fact, they might not ever). Yet that’s the stuff we all share— on social media, on our webpages, on our “about us” page…
Ugh.
Here’s what people REALLY want to know…
💙 That you know how they feel about the situation they’re facing
💙 That you know what that struggle is like…
💙 That you have a solution that can walk them step-by-step towards the “other side.”
This is— grasp this— true in just about every industry.
2023-10-1938 min
AmplifyThe Premise = if you have a call the organization you lead has one, too (Infinite ROI 2 of 4)The first core concept of the new Infinite ROI framework is this…
👇
An organization’s purpose & profit engine should be aligned— especially if you’re the leader.
If that’s true— and I think that it is— it means that your personal profit engine and “who you are” might very well be aligned— especially if you’re called.
In our culture, we readily believe that pastors and preachers can serve God’s plans and purposes during our lifetime, but we forget that painters, plumbers, principals, and even politicians can be just as called. In fact, we...
2023-10-1230 min
AmplifyHow profit can flow in multiple directions- without limits (Infinite ROI 1 of 4)If your business isn’t making money— or, at least, on the path to do so— it’s not going to have “gas in the tank” to sustain it for the long haul. Quite simply, whatever you do, you need funding to maintain the mission.
💰
Profit in multiple directions
Yet it’s too simplistic to just evaluate “profit” from a purely financial point-of-view. Business is MORE than just the money— even if it requires cash to keep it going.
Profit should flow in multiple directions— not just one.
That means that you shou...
2023-10-0533 min
AmplifyYour mess is often the message (as cliché as it sounds) - w/ Paul TalleyDon’t let anyone disqualify, dump, or destroy what God has already called and set aside for His purposes— and for the help of others.
Many times, we feel that our pain points and problem areas are the very reasons we shouldn’t share our message with the world. But, after we’ve walked through a season of healing and found wholeness, those past pitfalls often become the precise areas God wants to use as your platform…
… as your means of encouraging, equipping, and then empowering others to journey from where they are to where they’re desi...
2023-07-0444 min
AmplifyWhy content creators need a framework (and how to design one)Your message solves a problem and/or leads people closer towards their potential. Most of the time, it does both.
But it needs a “bit more” than just pointing them in the correct direction of that intended destination. In a real sense, you need to map the journey AND take them there.
You need a map to give your audience. Your framework is that map.
In this episode we talk about what to do if you’re stuck…
… that is, how do you “get a framework” even if you ALREADY have lo...
2023-06-2725 min
The Geriatric MillennialsTop Five: Poolside ReadsWe're sharing some of our favorite summer reads! Jayme’s PicksThe Maid by Nita Prose The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia OwensLessons in Chemistry by Bonnie GarmusThe Rosie Project by Graeme SimsionBeth’s PicksHarry Potter Series - Book #3: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban Like Water for Chocolate by Laura EsquivelThe Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill Hail Mary by Andy Weir One of Us is Dead by Jeneva Rose Bonus: What We’re Reading NowBetw...
2023-06-2018 min
AmplifyThree things you must do at your live eventA live event— or a series of live events— can become a great facet of your ecosystem…
Events are incredible ways to connect with new people, as well as create community and grow at even deeper levels.
But every live, in-person event needs at least three things to succeed.
#1 = Education
You must teach your audience something of value. Again, as we often say, your message solves a problem people have OR it steps them closer towards their potential.
Your live event needs to do this, as well…
It nee...
2023-06-2026 min
AmplifyStep 3 | Amplify (How to Write a Book #4 of 4)The third step in writing your book is to Amplify it, that is, to share your message with the masses. Broadcast the thoughts of your heart and let them echo forth to others.
Whether your project takes the form of a book, a website, a podcast, a workshop, a video course, or a combination you create, we share the message with others.
After all, that's why you created it-- to make sure others know!
Now, that might sound obvious…
But, so many content creators NEVER market their message, that is...
2023-06-1335 min
AmplifyStep 2 | Assemble (How to Write a Book #3 of 4)The second step in writing a book is to— after you’ve aggregated the parts that will comprise the whole— assemble it.
And reassemble it.
And work it and rework it over and over, more and more…
The most inspired ideas take a bit of time. The grow a life of their own.
And that life comes to fruition as we talk through the concepts.
In the same way you assemble and re-assemble Legos, we adjust and readjust your core concepts with you-- looking at them from different...
2023-06-0629 min
AmplifyHeal as You Go (How to Write a Book #2 of 4)In this episode we take an unplanned pause in the “How to Write a Book” series and keep talking about the book-writing process…
But, we pause and discuss why you need to heal as you write…
… as well as what happens in the process as you do.
Think about it.
Some of the most profound messages emerge from past pain-points. But, we don’t want to “leak” our wounds and ooze our hurts over our audience. Rather, we want to empower them from a position of healing and wholeness— even if we ARE stil...
2023-05-3023 min
AmplifyStep 1 | Aggregate (How to Write a Book #1 of 4)The first step (of three we’ll review) is “get it out of your head” and onto paper. Or into your computer. Or a folder. Or somewhere you can see it.
It doesn't have to look pretty at this point. In fact, it probably won't.
But once we get it out of your head, we can work on it.
We’ll call this step “aggregate,” that is, a conglomeration of various parts… a collection…
And, as odd as it sounds, even before you craft an outline, it is where to begin.
2023-05-2332 min
AmplifyHow courses & coaching are alike & different (Courses & Coaching, 2 of 2)Courses and coaching can work together…
In fact, as we say in this episode, they’re “like peanut butter and jelly.”
A course is comprised of three components:
⭐️ #1 = Information
That is, you share facts and figures and data with your client.
⭐️ #2 = Insight
This is where courses begin to distinguish themselves from mere “information sharing,” however. You add your unique voice— your flavor. Often, this comes from the wisdom of your experience as well as other sources from which you’ve gleaned your content.
⭐️ #3 = Application
The course should tell...
2023-05-1631 min
AmplifyWhy you need to create a framework (Courses & Coaching, 1 of 2)A lot of coaches and course creators aren’t really “coaching,” they’re just spouting out information. Coaching— and courses— are different that mere information-sharing.
In this 2-part series, we highlight how courses and coaching are similar, and how they can both work together to exchange your message.
Three current trends converge, right here and now, to make this the opportune time for you to launch a course…
✅ #1 = People can see your unique personality, and— right now— people CRAVE human interaction
✅ #2 = Current trends in online learning open the door for MORE opportunities for...
2023-05-0939 min
AmplifyHow to architect your ecosystem (Funnels, part 2 of 2)Building on the concepts we explored in the previous episode— about categorizing your audience as either OUT, ON, or IN your funnel— we take a closer look at what happens inside the funnel.
Remember, your funnel is shaped like an upside down cone— or a tornado. The lower ticket items are at the top, and the higher ticket items are at the bottom.
Though you may have MULTIPLE layers of offers scattered up and down the funnel, in this talk we break it into three segments for the sake of clarity and ease…
🌪️
✅ A...
2023-05-0230 min
AmplifyAre they OUT of your funnel, ON your funnel, or IN your funnel? (Funnels, part 1 of 2)A bunch of people building-out their message online talk about “the funnel.”
But what is it, really?
In this talk we break it down, highlighting THREE ways to classify people in your audience….
🎙️
💙 Some people are OUT of your funnel…. These are people who might actually watch, listen, or read your stuff, but you don’t yet have their contact info. As such, you have no way to communicate with them and invite them back to your website— or, more importantly for building your business, let them know when you have a sale!
...
2023-04-2538 min
AmplifyHow to Build an Online Audience from ScratchGrowing your online audience requires time + consistency… and a plan. Without all three, you’re waiting for lightning.
However, there is a proven plan you can run. Here it is…
🖥️ 1 = Create a website with an opt-in where you can collect visitor info.
Note: we’re definitely NOT against social media. However, we DO suggest you build your house on property you own…
Furthermore, we encourage you to collect the contact info of people who visit your site. Do this with opt-ins, and you’ll know what they came for, as well as how to d...
2023-04-1834 min
AmplifyWhy you need a content calendar + how to make oneBuilding a content calendar-- and planning weeks and even months in advance-- helps you unify your message across each of your communication streams.
Plus, it removes the guesswork of what to say on social media, how to to discuss on your podcasts and videos, what to email your subscribers, and when to do your online launches.
You'll easily identify--
📣 When to launch new products
📣 When to warm-up your list to prepare for those promotions
📣 How to know who to promote your sale to and who not to
📣 When to...
2023-04-1138 min
AmplifyRepurposing the Content You’ve Already Created (w/ Paul Talley)Recently, I sat at the mic on the kitchen table with my friend Paul Talley…
Paul and his wife, Suzi, joined us for the filming of the complete Amplify course. As we pushed through the material, Paul made a few interesting observations. Here’s one:
“We did this backwards!” he exclaimed. “We have a book, but we’ve been doing this high-level coaching. There’s so much more we can EASILY add to our ecosystem.”
✅
When you’re waiting for coaching clients, you’re dependent on big ticket sales. Those are great… when t...
2023-04-0431 min
AmplifyNo one renovates a rental (the case for building you digital home on your website, not social media)It’s a bit odd that the “building online” conversation almost always shifts immediately to social media— to space you don’t own.
In this talk we outline four reasons you should build where you do own (your website) while ALSO leveraging the power of social media.
Here are the four points we hit:
🤷♂️ #1 = You don’t know where they’ll be sent next
When people leave your site and go to social media, they’re bombarded with additional messages. You might agree with the political, personal, or theological stance… or not. This is true whethe...
2023-03-2830 min
AmplifyWhy writing your book is the best place to begin (but a horrible place to stop)One of the mind-shifts in Amplify is that you need to view your book NOT as the pinnacle of your creation journey, but as the beginning. In this episode we begin with 5 reasons you should begin with the book…
These are listed in reverse order we mention them in Amplify. But, there’s intention to doing in backwards here:…
⭐️ #5 = Low cost with high return.
You don’t have to spend a chunk of cash to write a book. The greatest investment is your time.
⭐️ #4 = Multi-directional reach (go broader, deeper, and longer)....
2023-03-2133 min
AmplifyHow to recycle your best content (More mind-shifts)A few years ago, I sat with a pastor-friend. He wasn’t sure how to “amplify” his message.
Oddly enough, ministers are some of the best content creators— they share new ideas every week, they’re in the discipline of doing a fantastic job when they do, and they speak passionately as if they’re message truly matters (I believe it does!).
However, the pastor hadn’t made the leap to see how he could “run the same play” I was running to share my business talks online.
Later, I shifted.
I didn’t want...
2023-03-1428 min
AmplifyEdit + enhance + expand your voice (More mind-shifts)Don’t let perfect be the enemy of published.
But, don’t let poor-performance be a trap to not strive for professionalism, either.
(We’ve seen both extremes.)
One of the best ways to begin… it to just begin. And begin with the tools you have.
Many content creators assume they need the best tech, the latest gadgets, and some new-fangled software.
Even today, we use a BUNCH of “out of the box” resources…
👉 Keynote for graphics and slides
👉 iPhones and iMovie for quick edits
👉...
2023-03-0728 min
AmplifyYou don’t need permission | You need a process (Mind-shifts)Many people are waiting for someone to validate their message. Maybe that’s you.
If you are, wait no longer— you have permission to share, already. For sure, you need a process… but you don’t need to wait for someone else to give you the green light.
So, get started. Begin talking, writing, coaching… whatever…
In this episode we talk about four types of problems your message can solve— as you step people into their potential. These include:
🏁 an elusive result or goal
🏁 perspective to live differently
🏁...
2023-02-2831 min
AmplifyRefining your message is (sometimes) messyMost of the time your book— or course or other creation— doesn’t “turn out” exactly like you envisioned it…
If you work through the process— and don’t quit— the process of aggregating the parts, assembling and re-assembling them, adjusting and re-adjusting… the end result is most often FAR BETTER than you originally intended.
In this episode, we discuss how that process works, as well as take a deeper look at what it means to “solve a problem and step people towards their potential.” You see, not ALL problems are negative.
Then, we discuss the importance o...
2023-02-2126 min
AmplifyLead people from the problem to their potential (using your unique perspective)The message you carry helps people solve a problem or step into their potential. Generally, it does both— you lead people from where they are to where they’re designed to be.
Many times, we feel that someone “beat us to it,” that is, they’ve declared the message before we have. However, your heart-message delivers FAR MORE than mere information. You provide unique insight, because you relay that information from a unique perspective.
Your perspective matters, because you matter.
+++
📣 Important links:
Download the 11 mind-shifts at www.AmplifyOnline.in...
2023-02-1422 min
AmplifyMultiply + Monetize (+ Megaphone) Your MessageYou’ve got something to say— we’ll help you say it louder.
The 4-part Amplify framework begins with The Message, the unique “voice” you have.
In this episode of the podcast, we talk about the new project… and how it can help you clarify the message you carry, and then share it with others.
Here, we talk about the importance of aggregating the message, assembling the message, and then (after adjusting and re-adjusting it) amplifying it so others can hear.
+++
📣 Important links:
Download the 11 min...
2023-02-0724 min
Talk Bookish To Me#37 - Best & Worst Books of 2021 + Reading Stats & SuperlativesToday, Jordyn and I are sharing our best & worst books of the year + some reading stats & awarding superlatives! It’s the BIG end of year wrap up extravaganza!
Jordyn’s YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/SorryBookedSolid
Jordyn's Instagram https://www.instagram.com/srybookedsolid/
Books Mentioned
Ground Zero by Alan Gratz
Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
In the Dream House by Carmen Maria Machado
A Magical New York Christmas by Anita Hughes
Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid
All Your Perf...
2021-12-271h 37Brave Little StateWhy do people like Phish? A guide for the uninitiated
We journey into the weird world of Vermont's favorite jam band, to explore the culture of "phandom” and Phish’s early roots in our brave little state.In our 100th episode, Ethan Weinstein of South Woodstock asks: “Why do people like Phish? And how did they become such a big part of Vermont music culture?”Warning: There’s a bit of profanity in this episode, and some discussion of drugs and drug culture.To see photos of Phish from their early Vermont days, check out our web...
2021-12-0252 min
The Great Broadway Game Show Competition, hosted by Todd Graff and Andrew LippaPodcast TrailerThere’s never been a musical theatre game show… until now. In “The Great Broadway Game Show Competition”, teams of Broadway stars face off against each other, and the audience, to “Name That Show Tune”, and win money for charity, while sharing intimate stories and memories from their lives and careers. Created and hosted by Todd Graff, and joined by co-host Andrew Lippa (Tony nominated composer/lyricist of The Addams Family, Big Fish and The Wild Party), guest players include Annaleigh Ashford, Andy Karl, Orfeh, Liz Callaway, Robin de Jesus, Tamara Tunie, Angela Grovey, Krysta Rodriguez, Jeremy Jordan, Ashley Spenc...
2021-11-2201 min
Effective Altruism: Ten Global Problems – 80,000 Hours (October 2021)Three: Andy Weber on pandemics and nuclear warsCOVID-19 has provided a vivid reminder of the damage biological threats can do. But the threat doesn’t come from natural sources alone. Weaponized contagious diseases — which were abandoned by the United States, but developed in large numbers by the Soviet Union, right up until its collapse — have the potential to spread globally and kill just as many as an all-out nuclear war.For five years, Andy Weber, was the US’ Assistant Secretary of Defense responsible for biological and other weapons of mass destruction. Andy’s current mission is to spread the word that while bioweapons are terrifying...
2021-10-031h 54
LifeLift86. Embrace who you are because of whose you are (fitness talk w/ Carol Bevil), Coaches Series #8Beth found Carol via social media. And then learned she lives just a few miles away.
Carol has an interesting story…
A few years ago she began writing a book about diet + fitness. (She’s worked in gyms and— even when we recorded this talk— arrived in cycling shorts, having just come from leading a spin session at the gym down the street.)
Then she had a double mastectomy. She was “grounded” for a while.
Her college-aged daughter saw her journal entires / prayers one day and began counting them…
“Mom, there are 2...
2021-07-2849 min
LifeLift83. Where you are is where you must begin (Oola 2 of 4)In this talk I continue where I left off last week (see www.Jenkins.tv/blog/170), talking about the Oola story. My piece in it, anyway…
Right now, Oola is in the middle of a global launch. In fact, it’s HAPPENING the day this podcast airs— 7/7/2021.
The goal is to positively impact 1 BILLION (yes, with a “B”) over the next 7 years…
And, even though Beth + I have bought Into the vision (and invite you to join us), that’s not where it began for me…
🚌
About seven years ago I met Dav...
2021-07-0744 min
From the Front PorchEpisode 212 || February Reading RecapFebruary is the shortest month of the year, and it really felt like it this time around! Join Annie and Chris as they discuss what they were able to read this month--because they were some really good ones. You can find all of the following books for sale (or preorder) in The Bookshelf's online store. Annie read: + Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead (on sale July 16) + Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid (on sale March 5) + Tomorrow There Will Be Sun by Dana Reinhardt (on sale March 5) + If Beale Street Could Talk by James Baldwin + Waiting for Tom Hank...
2019-02-2833 min
The Future Is A Mixtape020: More Bleak Than BleakFor this episode of The Future Is A Mixtape, Jesse & Matt discuss the slow, spiral reckoning of Ridley Scott’s much-celebrated and increasingly influential film Blade Runner, whose long and winding road lead to a sequel, Blade Runner 2049. While detractors of the original film might feel they’re viewing a sexy-time noir featuring little more than robots and porn-jazz, for the entranced, the film’s hypnotic imagery and ruminations on universal themes like humanness, memory and belonging still keep many cineaste-hearts aflutter. After the blockbuster ascendency the Star Wars franchise and SF’s increasing maturation as a cinematic genre, Ridley S...
2017-11-091h 22