Why the Right Relationships Matter More Than the Right Contacts with Kristina Bartold

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You don't need to be friends with the people on stage, like, or the people you've even invested in, really. Just leaning into the people who are on the come up with you. It is like the ultimate networking hack. That's how I've gotten all my speaking opportunities. That's how I've gotten all my referrals. Like, all of that has been focusing on building those relationships.

This is an absolute masterclass in how to network. It's the long game. Foreign. Welcome to the podcast. I'm so excited to have you on.

Thank you so much for having me. I'm so happy to be here and happy to be here in person.

I know. Okay, so I'm. I'm really trying to figure out how we're going to not turn this podcast into a comedic show, because I feel like whenever I'm with you, I either want to crack jokes, laugh at all of your jokes, or I just want to. It's like, it's. It's so much fun to just drop in and be, like, girlfriends together. So I promise you guys, we are going to teach you things. But we might. We might get sidetracked. We'll see.

We might laugh. My cheeks already kind of hurt. We've been together for 15 minutes. I'm like, my cheeks.

We've already had. We've already had a morning, you guys, which is so much fun. But, Christina, I want everyone to know, like, actually how obsessed Chris and I are with you. I'm going to start out with that because you are one of the people that when people think of joining Masterminds I don't think they understand how much their world can truly change if they come into a mastermind, really viewing it with how can I add value? And I would say that you are the epitome of. If I could explain how you're going to make yourself insanely successful by joining a community, you are the epitome of that. Like when I explain it to people, you're either the name that comes up or you're the person that I think of. In my head, it's like the avatar of how you come into a community and how you build community. So we got to know you through Fast Foundations. Yeah, I would love for you from your perspective to kind of tell me where you were when you joined FAST Foundations first, because you guys there is. Christina is insanely successful. She has her own company. She's the co founder of two different companies. And I will tell you that, like, it all began because of who you. How you show up in rooms in the community that you build.

Oh, my gosh, Lori, thank you. Firstly, like, I always say this, and I've said this before, like when you were on my podcast when I was here last, like, I would not be who I am without you and Chris. So I always give you guys a foundation. I'm like, Chris and Laurie were my mba. Like, honestly, just I learned so much from, from past foundations and onwards from. I was nearly mastermind and roundtable. I've done it all. Like, I'm like, I was saying today, I'm like basically like a Chris and Laurie, like extended family member. I'm like, you know, you are. Yeah, thank you. So, yeah, yeah, I'm just kick it out. Yeah, I know everything. Even Taylor messaged me today. He was, I can't believe you're in the US So I'm not seeing you. I'm like, I know, I'm like my brother. Yeah. But yeah, no, I loved Fast Foundations and the way I kind of got into it. And this is actually such a great, you know, segue because I started listening to Chris's podcast. Someone I knew posted Chris's podcast and I was obsessed with his energy. Right. Like, like you are, I'm sure. And actually the thing about Chris that I find the most surprising is that he is as high vibe, like IRL and like in his casual time as he is in the like virtual online podcast.

Really is. People have asked me, they're like, is this real? I'm like, no, this is how he wakes up.

I tell. So when I had the opportunity to go to Your lake house. I literally like the amount of people that ask me. They're like, are Chris and Lori, like, the way they are, like, in real life? And I'm like, no, the exact same. Like, the exact same. Except Lori's funnier, but Lori is like, more. More fun. Tell them I don't need to. They see it, but they. They know. But I was obsessed with his energy. And so it's so interesting because it's such an example of, like, when people podcast, you know, over and over again, you're kind of like, does anyone listen to this? Like, who's going to buy this? Like, whatever. And he had sat on this. He's like, this is the last round of Fox Foundations. You guys were running your online community at the time. And I had this feeling we were in business about maybe six months. It was still a side hustle for me. I still had a nine to five. My business partner, Maria, I went to her and I'm like, okay, listen to this random man from Arizona's podcast. And he's running this program one last time. I think I should do it. And Maria was kind of like, if you want to do it, like, do it. I was like, I'll take my own pay and do it for it. I believe in it so much. I think that this is it. So I make the investment, I go all in on it. And it was the catalyst for not only doubling our business, tripling our business, we went probably making five, $10,000 a month. Within three years, we had built some bigger business.

It's so exciting.

And I still think Fast Foundations. I used to have a chart. I should reference it, but I still think Fast Foundations is the catalyst of the majority of the clients that got. And I still get referrals from it, like, years and years later. And I think the way that, you know, I showed up in that room was one. I think what's really important with any room you go into, but I think what was really important in that time for me was like, I was a sponge. Like, I just wanted to learn from everyone, including you, Chris, Nick, like, but actually, like, my peers. And I think a lot of people join masterminds or get into rooms and they're, like, obsessed with the leaders. And I think the leaders set the tone. But I actually think it's like, really the peers that are the magic. So I kind of, you know, dropped in, was like, hey, I'd love to give people some, like, free social media advice. Like, let me know. And in a way, it was selfish because I really Wanted to meet people, but also I wanted to do market research. I needed to know these were my ideal clients. I never pitch anybody. People ask me for like pricing decks all the time. I'm like, you need to explicitly say to me that you want me to send you a follow up email. Like, I will not send it to you. Um, but I would meet with people, I'd give them free advice, we would have these amazing conversations. And then after that I was like, okay, like, you know, I'm getting a lot of info and people always at the end would be like, how can we work together with you? Or together, or I have an intro for you or a collaboration. And so I was taking all the nuggets. I was learning from, you know, you and Chris and Nick. And I had a coach. Jim Carter was actually my, like my coach in Fast foundations, which is amazing. And I really was able to take all of that and then the connections to really use that to skyrocket my business. So, like, I think the investment might have been like $3,000. I believe I've made millions off of it. Like, I, I believe we always try to do the math on it, but like, truly, just because of like how amazing the quality of the people you attract is. But also I think our ability to get in there, make those great connections and try to build community.

Oh, I love that. Okay, so for anybody listening who's like, should I be joining a room? One thing that I think comes up for a lot of people is there's a lot of like questions. There's a lot of self doubt. How did you know what to join? Was it like a gut feeling or did you interview people who were in there? What were you looking for?

Yeah, it's funny, at the beginning it was a gut feeling for Chris. It was like, I like binge this podcast. I listened to so many episodes of it. I was even the other day on my Spotify and I was like, like taking out old episodes I never listened to. And I was like, oh, Chris and Laurie, 20, 21. Like I probably fine on that one.

That's my year.

Yeah.

So it's like so amazing. Like, you know, that was it. Like I just had this feeling that this was right. And that actually is just such a reminder for people about free, like, content and really like adding value. And like, even when you, you're not sure and you're about to like launch something, you have people who are probably waiting in the dark who are like listening to all of your things and who are connecting with you. So that Was really how, like at that time I made that choice was God. And really just like Chris over delivered. Like I always found he gave so much free knowledge. You guys still do this with the mentor collective. Like just so much info that it was really the, like, oh, if he's giving that much for free, like, what's going to happen when I pay for that? And now I make decisions from a bit of a different place. Like, I definitely probably like, you know, interview people now, but I think early stage, like finding those people that you're really aligned with that you, you know, deliver. And I think, you know, I'm going to give you many accolades, I'm sure as we talk. But like I tell everyone I'm like Chris and Lori over deliver no matter what you're doing. Like whether it's mentor, collector, whether it's the elite, whether it's a roundtable, like it's a VIP weekend, like anyone who asks me about investing with you, because people like to like ask me all the time. I'm like, you guys really overdeliver. So really asking other people is a great way to do it. Not always my way, but at that time it was definitely got.

I love that. Okay, so when you are walking into the room, were there things that you prepared yourself with? Were you like, I'm going to be interested in people, I'm going to arm myself with these questions or have you always been very socially outgoing?

Oh, I've always been socially going, I think it's like I'm an only child.

Tell me the magic behind, then tell us the magic. Like, what would you say too? Because like I, I love to find you at events because I'm just like, let me find this very extroverted person. Which I can be extremely extroverted, but I can also be really introverted.

So I'm like, so funny.

Let's find the extrovert to help me extrovert even more. But what would you say to somebody who's like going into an event? How would you help coach them through it?

Yeah, it's so funny because I think.

You know or into a mastermind.

Yeah. Or do. Yeah, it's funny because I think I can be both where it's like, I'm also very outgoing and extra. But sometimes when I'm out of my shel in a space where I don't know anybody, I'm like a silent little potato and even I laugh because my me and my business partner will go places together and we kind of have the opposite experience. And I'm like, if I don't know somebody, I was like, I'm like, I need a crutch. I need someone who's going to be like, my little buddy. But I think really, it's that idea of being, like, you know, interested rather than interesting. Like, asking a lot of questions, seeing, like, what's going on for people. And I like to make it my mission to try to help people with whatever it is that they're looking for. So even Lori, like, you know, if you're in a smaller room where people are talking about, like, what's going on for them, things they're struggling with, like, I'll take notes and I'll write down, like, okay, Lori said that she's actually struggling with ads right now. And I know an amazing ads company. And so I will go afterwards. I'll be like, laurie, you mentioned ads. I actually know somebody who could probably help you. Can I make that intro for you? Really building that, like, kind of capital, relationship capital between us. I think that's such a big piece of, like, building that relationship. I don't focus on a hundred people when I do this. Like, when I go into a room, I'm not, like, I'm gonna go and I'm gonna get a return on my investment. Like, I. I went to an event a few weeks ago in Miami. Maybe I paid $3,000. I didn't go there being like, oh, my goodness, like, by the end of this, I need a $3,000 client. I go in there being like, how do I get to know a few people, build really solid connections, lean into the connections I already have, and really just focus on. On adding value. And I think even if you do that with one or two people, it makes a big difference. So for those of you listening who might be a little bit more introverted, and you're, like, a little nervous about connecting on one or two relationships. And one of the things I love that Lori, like you always say, and I think you've said this with a lot of grace, is this idea of, like, you don't need to be friends with the people on stage, like, or the people you've even invested in, really just leaning into the people who are on the come up with you. That has been. That's how I've gotten all my speaking opportunities. That's how I've gotten all my referrals. Like, all of that has been focusing on building those relationships. So I think even just finding one or two people, because I mentioned, like, I'm an only child, so I think it's always come naturally to me. I'm like, you know, hyped up. But I think there's also like, for those of you who are like, hey, this is a muscle. Like, I've never like, flex build one relationship and the fortune's actually really in the follow up. If you go and you're like, hey, I didn't make all the connections I wanted. I love to write people's names down and be like, hey, send them a voice note afterwards. Being like, we never actually got to meet and I noticed you were there and I'd love to connect with you. Here's a connection call link. Would love to just like, you know, drop and connect. No, like, obligation also, like not going to pitch you anything. And that's how so many amazing connections have come.

Okay, so I want to circle back to something that you also said. When you go, when you go into a room, you're kind of like, have this idea of adding value if they need help. You're like, let's book a call. Like, I can help walk you through that without the, like, you're not expecting something from them. It would be wonderful.

Yeah.

But you're not like, okay, now you have to return this favor. For people who are, you know, there's so many different types of personalities that go into these rooms. There's sometimes there's people who are like, over givers.

Yeah.

Would you.

How did you set boundaries around. I know you kind of mentioned like, you know, you don't go in with the intention of doing this for every everyone. How do you kind of decide and set boundaries around your energy and how much value you're going to offer and add how many calls you're going to book with the attendees.

You know, it's interesting. I don't know if you find this, Lori, because I know you have a similar mindset, but I actually feel like people don't take advantage of it. Like, yeah, and I don't know if it's like, because I definitely, I would say early on was kind of like give to everyone. Just, you know, you never know where anything will go. Like you. I had conversations with people where I'm like, I don't think this is going to turn into anything. Like, you have a full social media team, you have a full podcast production thing. Like, and then they end up sponsoring one of my events or they end up introducing me to a great sponsor. Like, you never know, like, what could happen and really just being in it for relationship. But I would say I don't, I don't I haven't found that too many people are, like, you know, abusing me, like, messaging me 24 7. But what I will say is you can feel energetically when things feel like a match. And I love to be the person to go first. I love to be the person to say, like, hey, I'm going to. You know, there's this new relationship here. I'm the person who's going to take care for lunch. I'm the person who's going to make that intro for you. And if I notice that there's, like, a lot of asks, then I'm like, I'm going to withdraw a bit. And that's always a hard line, right? Because, like, I'm not a big asker myself. Like, you know, if someone asks me for something, I'm always happy to do it. But, like, when I need something, I'm kind of like, do you think I should, like, flex this relationship? Should I ask? It's always tough. But I would say for me, it's really about, like, setting the boundary around, like, what feels like a good energetic match, which is really just a feeling. Like, I wish there was a formula. I'm sure you feel the same way.

Oh, yeah, for sure.

It's like, sometimes, and even, like, the way I feel about you and Chris, it's like, I, like, Like, I'm fundraising for Glossy. I'm like, okay, who do I know that's an investor? Like, yes, like, let me make an intro. Let me do whatever I can. But, like, you know, if someone else tells me they're fundraising, I might not be as quick to be like, let me, like, pull up my Rolodex, you know, so it's all about the kind of energy exchange.

Mm. Once you get in the rooms, you guys will know what we're talking about. And when I say rooms, I mean these can online as well. It's like, if it feels heavy and it feels like it's hard to do it, that's not an energetic match. If it feels exciting and you're like, I don't know what this is, but I feel like I'm supposed to follow it. I feel like those are little energetic breadcrumbs that you. You just don't know what it's going to turn into. And I think that's what's been so amazing with you, is you have added so much value to us by following now. What I am learning for you was, like, an energetic match that the way that you showed up for us. I'm like, wow. Every time this Woman shows up in a room, the room is better. I feel amazing around her. I'm like completely blown away by the value that you've added in the people that you've referred to us to the point where I'm like, I. What I'm thinking, what can I do for Christina? Like, how could you know, is how can we have her, like, be a coach in our stuff, which is such a value add for us, by the way. But we're just like, how could I surround myself with her because it feels so good. How could I have her on the podcast. Podcast when she comes back to the us? So if you guys want to know how these things happen, this is lit, literally how it happens. This is how it happened with my mentors. Like, yeah, it's legitimately how I got Gabby Bernstein to forward my book is because I just kept on showing up for her over and over and over without any expectation, truly. So when it came time for an ask that I still did not have an attachment to.

Yeah.

I was like, hey, would you ever, you know, think about forwarding this book because of how many things that like, you've impacted me on. I'd love for you to be the person who does this. And it was for her, she was like, it was just a no brainer. Like, of course. Because of how many things that I had done for her.

Yeah.

And so these are the, the ways that you have to think you guys, like, I've had, I've had. I've literally had people, which Christina, we can. We're not going to do a session, whatever, whatsoever, but we are going to chat about some right and wrong ways.

Totally. Yeah.

And I have done the wrong ways as well. So I just want to raise my hand right now and say when you are new, if you guys have done some of these, trust me, I've cringed multiple times at myself. And it's not a bad thing. It's a great, great lesson to learn, like, what to do and what not to do. I've had people who have never messaged me once, have never seen in my life, want me to forward their book and then share it. And I'm like, I literally don't know who you are.

And so what is your book about?

I, I can't put my name on it because I just don't know who you are. Like, I'm gonna need to do a background check, but don't you find too.

And this is actually like the blessing and the curse. I think of your audience growing. Right. Like, and like, for you Lori, you have this amazing, abundant audience. Like. Like, I always joke, like, in Canada, like, it's like you're like a household name. It's so funny. But it's just you have this amazing audience, and there's expectations because people feel like they know you better than you know them.

Right.

But then at the same time, it's also like, you know, I think people are. Can be really disrespectful of those boundaries because you actually don't know them. Right. And that's like. It's just like, you're both hanging out in the digital space, but it feels closer than it is because people feel like they know you.

Yeah. Like, I feel close to people who have no idea who my. My name is. I'm like, oh, that's right. That's right.

Yeah.

So what would you say is a great. I mean, I know you've talked about value ads, but when you are going out in the world and you're like, oh, I'm gonna need, you know, potent, or I would love to potentially be able to ask them for something down the road, unattached.

Yeah.

What are the ways that you start viewing that relationship?

Yeah. I would say the big thing for me is, like, it's really the, like, the value piece, but it's like, I think showing up, like. Like, relentlessly a little, like, you know, and not in, like, an annoying way where you're, like, messaging people 24 7, because people don't like that either. But what I would say is Chris made a joke about this in one of our mentor collective calls where he was introducing me and I was. And we were talking about relationships, and I was like, like, guys, like, the way, like, I became friends with Chris and Lori is I just, like, wore them down listening to their podcast and posting their podcast episodes. I mean, like, hi, this was good. And I like this, and I shared this. And you can't help but notice when people are, like, interested in what you're doing and interested in the things that you're up to. And so I think for me, it's just really, like, making connections for people. Really. Also just, like, sharing. And I would say, too, like, there is an energy around, like, because you had mentioned, like, people messaging you about, like, forwarding. I get. Not to the same extent, but I get messages all the time where people will be like, could you share my podcast episode? And I'm like, I haven't listened to that. Like, I don't. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know.

What you're saying.

Yeah, like, what is your podcast about? Like, I don't know. And I think it's really like. But if you message me and you're like, hey, I had this awesome episode and I'm wondering like, for reach, if you wanted to share it. Like, it's like, enough core. So I think it's really always about that, like, relationship pre ask, which I actually think it's. It's people miss. And I don't know if you feel this too, but it's like, especially in the online digital world and. And in person too. Like, there's just so much and I think, like, really focusing on, you know, not like, really breadth of relationships, but depth and being like, hey, I have like one or two mentors. Like, I don't have a lot of mentors. I've, like, I like, you know, I've worked with you and Chris, like, pretty much extensively. If someone asked me, my mentors are. That's like, you guys. And I've invested in creating cultivate events. Like, that's been really my big kind of investments over the years. And so I think, like, like, you know, not worrying so much about, like, trying to make so many relationships so you have so many people to ask, but if you actually just like, focus on the depth of these relationships, a lot of magic can happen.

I totally agree with that. And I think that we can get lost in that world of thinking that you do need to be close to all of these different people in all these different groups and all of these different mentors. And I've really watched you, in a beautiful way, infiltrate deeply into certain groups by adding so much value that everyone in those rooms knows your name. So, you guys, this is. This is an absolute masterclass in how to network. And I think that if anyone really, it's the long game. It's the long game. Christine, how long would you say, like, you start feeling like you are getting a network and where you can start, like, feeling like seeing some results from it?

I am like, such a big believer in, like, you reap what you sow, like, hugely with network. And actually a mistake I see people make all the time is kind of like what I had said earlier. You go somewhere, you're like, where's my money? Like, you know, it's like, immediate. And I actually think, like, things could take six months, they could take a year, but it's really about your effort. Like, are you, like, are you asking questions? Are you booking coffee chats? Are you going out for coffee? Are you, like, it's not enough to just invest. I've seen people do this with, like, big investments where they'll invest in something like the elite mastermind, and they don't come to any other calls, and they don't reach out to any other. Like, and that's not. That's exception, not the norm. But like, like, they don't, you know, meet with somebody one on one. And I'm like, you're like, maximize your investment. Like, meet every single person. Like, I make that a priority when I'm in a mastermind is I'll reach out to every single person to have a coffee. And there's people who aren't a click and there's people who become lifelong friends, like, and you feel that energy, right? So I would say, like, really leaning into that and doing, you know, maybe three months of networking. I once got the advice of, like, try to meet someone new every day. And at the end of the week, I always schedule like, two or three hours where I follow up with all the people I met with. And I'm like, hey, I owe you this. This. I had a conversation with somebody about this, and I want to make a connection. I end every single one of those calls with, what do you need right now in your business? Like, what's, like, what's. What's a slam dunk for you? You know, big sports girl over here and all these words, reference I can make. But yeah, like, I'm like, what's a slam dunk for you? Because sometimes people will be like, I just want to be on a few more podcasts. And I'm like, well, I have a podcasting agency with 50 podcasts, so, like, let me make a few intros or something there. Or someone will be like, I'm looking for an intro to this person. And sometimes I'm like, can't make that intro because that's a relationship that I'm still cultivating, or that person's kind of guarded or whatever. But, like, what else are you looking for? How can I be helpful? Let me keep that in mind. So I just say, like, it's even today. I was just telling you about a friend who has a co working space. And I was like, yeah, I think Lori would love to come work here. And, like, when the time is right, I'll make the right introduction. Right? Like, it takes the time to do it the right way. I'm curious, actually, for you, and I know you're interviewing me, but, like, I love this.

I like going both ways.

Now. This is my podcast, so I'M curious for you, like, as somebody who has like such a, like, large, like, audience and such a, you know, you've cultivated so much community. Like, what, what is a slam dunk for you in building those relationships when people are coming to your world and like, you know, are making asks, like, what's the best way for people to do that?

Are you saying from like a somebody that I don't know coming into to make an ask to me? Yeah, definitely. Relationship. Like if, if you have been in my DMs or you're sharing something or maybe you're asking like, very well thought about questions, like one at a time or you're commenting on things. Maybe I see you at events and you make a, you know, you, you come up and chat.

Yeah.

Making an effort.

Yeah.

Like, you feel the effort and I know you feel the effort as well.

Yeah.

Christina, like, people, we forget that these people that we're looking up to are people.

Yeah.

And they, they want to feel connected to someone. And it's actually quite crazy how quickly you can feel connected to people when they intentionally start showing up in your world.

Yeah.

And I can feel the energy of somebody also. This is really, really huge, you guys. This is something that I had to work on and I think is really big for you guys to work on. When you're, when you're networking is to make sure your energy is like, clean when you're going for an ask or when you're going. And I'll explain what I mean by clean because that's a weird. Like, if you are really like, I need this person to see me. I need this person to share my stuff. I need this person in order for my stuff to be successful. That energy is really, it's like a desperate feeling and people can feel it immediately. Like, I can feel when someone feels like they believe they're reliant on my event to change their entire life that particular weekend. And I'm like, whoa, whoa. Like, this is going to take a lot of work on your part. And so I think, um, it is the. I feel when people are like, this is a relationship that I want to build.

Yep.

Not only because, yes, you could probably do something great for me, but also because I am interested in you as a person. Yeah. And I'm also here to reciprocate, like, that energy is what feels really good for me.

No, I love that. Cause I was gonna say one of the things that I struggle with a lot in terms of like, you know, one of my businesses is called High Five Women. It's an event for entrepreneurial women. It's in Canada. Americans welcome to it.

It's a great event. You guys, you need to go.

Thanks, Laurie. But one of the things I really struggle with is, like, speakers is that people want to. They pitch me for speaking all the time. Like, and they'll book discovery calls through my other business, and I'll get on the phone with them. They're like, I actually don't want any services, but I just want to tell you I'm a great speaker. And I'm like, oh, you'll actually never speak. That was, like, not the right way to do that. Right? And, like. But I'm sure you feel this, too. It's like, this energy around, like, I'm like, come to the event. Enjoy the event. Show up and add a ton of value at the event.

Event. Y.

And there was somebody who came to, like, you know, they pitched me to speak. I kind of was like, sorry, like, it's not a fit right now. Nothing negative, just, like, full. And she came to the event, and she added so much value, like, the amount of people who came to me, and they were like, oh, I actually got to take away from this person. I was like, not a speaker. Like, you guys were sitting at a table, and she. You know that. But it was so amazing. Like, she connected with so many people. She reached out to people after. Like, I heard over and over again. Like, I couldn't stop hearing her name. So then when we went to choose the next speakers, of course she was on the list, right? Like, yeah, she gave a little. I gave a little. I was like, great, right? And even if things are not a no, like, they're a no right now, they're not a no forever, but it's really by your actions, and they can become a no forever depending on what you do next, right? And so if you're like, hey, that was a no, but, like, I'm gonna keep showing up, and I'm gonna keep being like, you know, 100, and I'm gonna, like, show up with a lot of integrity. The opportunities will come. And I've. I've waited in that, too, where it's like, there's been times where I'm like, I'd love to do this, and then it hasn't happened the way I wanted it to, but then I keep with the positive energy around it, and it has happened later. So sometimes we, you know, don't want to block our blessings.

Yeah.

Oh, my God. I love that you pointed that out. Because if you want to be in someone's world, you really actually have to go in their world first. Like, you have to know what it is that Christina wants. What does she need at this event? Oh, my gosh. Where could you add value? Where could you see that? Hey, you know what? I got to spend last year in the audience, and here was the main question.

Yes.

Here's where I feel like. Like, whether it's me or someone else, it's totally up to you. I'm gonna come to your event anyway. Like, that's the languaging, guys. Like, no matter what, I'm gonna be there because I want to support.

Yeah.

If you want help around this, awesome. If not, no worries. You know, I'm gonna keep showing up like, I'm your girl. Like, that feels so supportive and not, like, not needy and not a little, like, oh, my gosh, I don't know how. It's almost like those relationships can turn. I don't. I don't get them anymore because I can feel them. I can actually feel that energy. But in the beginning, I almost feel like it's a rite of passage that you don't know how to manage that energy as the person being asked. And what can happen is it can, like, turn south very quickly, where they, like, get mad at you, then.

Oh, I've had this. I've had this recently. Like, you know, like, not to get too specific, but, you know, someone had come to our event and felt very, like, entitled to, like, you know, some stage time because they'd been to the event a few times and kind of, like, like, made that very clear to me. And, like, I. It wasn't a no, but it just wasn't a no right then. Yeah. Now it's a no.

Yeah.

Like, because of the way the interaction went down. And for me, it's like my, like, you know, the high vibe women's stage, like, my. My community, like, that is, like, the most important thing I have. And so I'm gonna. My family, my child, but, like, my business importance. So it's like, I'm gonna protect that, and I'm gonna only bring the best people there, and I am gonna, like, really think about, like, it's. And it's the same for you when you run girlfriends in business. And when you're running, you know, the elite or whatever, you're bringing in guest speakers. Like, you're going to bring in people who have a ton of integrity. And, you know, that is so important. And so if you're waiting for an opportunity, sometimes it can feel like it's not happening on your timeline, but if you just keep, you know, chipping away at it and asking for feedback, you know, asking, saying, hey, like, I've, like, I've pitched you five times on this and it's not a fit. Clearly I'm curious, like, what could I be doing? Like, is there anything I could be doing? And sometimes it's not you at all. And sometimes it is, actually. And, you know, someone can give you some feedback that can totally change your business.

Yep, totally. And I think that is the other thing is if you're gonna. I think asking for feedback is so important if that's happening and you're not getting the answer that you want, because you could be going and doing the same thing over and over, and you guys aren't gonna get a yes because something is off. But you also have to be very open to the feedback. Like, you have to know that some of it, yes could be true, some of it may just be from their opinion. So it's like taking that gut checking with it, seeing how you can change, seeing if you can get more feedback from other people to see if this truly is a repeated pattern for you.

Totally.

And really taking that on and maybe going back to that person after you've integrated it and saying, hey, thank you so much for that feedback. Like, maybe in the moment it was hard for me to hear, but I went back and I did this, this and that. You guys, that is like, game changing for people.

Totally.

You will.

Your world will be rocked at how you can change relationships by actually really taking that on. So, okay, you are the co founder of the social snippet and High Vibe women, which we've talked about with your events. Yeah, let's start with the event, because I feel like we've been talking about masterminds and events. Do you feel like people are really starting to crave more in person right now?

Yeah, big time. And I actually think it's really, like, shifting since COVID you know, where it's like, everyone is online. I always say, you know, even mentor, collective, like. Like, it's bumping in there. People love. They, like, ask tons of questions, they come to all your calls. So if you cultivate a great online community, there's great things that can happen. But I think in person, there's a really amazing magic that can happen that I think people are really noticing. So even in Canada, like, high five, women. When we started that, there weren't a lot of events, like, I couldn't find them, and now they're trying to pop up a lot more, which is awesome. And like I'm even seeing friends of mine run them, which is great. But I think people are really, really wanting that, like, in person connection because I do think that is where a lot of like long lasting relationships can happen. Know this from being in person. Masterminds, like, you go, you sit next to somebody, you have no idea that they can change your business in your life. So definitely, definitely seeing more of that.

Okay, so tell me about your last high vibe women event.

Yeah.

What made you want to start an event and tell me kind of like what that has done for you and what that's done for your community.

Well, actually, to be honest, like, you know, of course you and Chris are part of the story in a way because I was in, you know, once you guys sold fast foundations to Jim and rt, I was in that for a few years and I had the opportunity to coach in that as well. And what was so cool about that is Chris came to speak and you know, we were chatting and he said, I, like this is gonna be on my tombstone. But he wrote like the, the people who are gonna see success this year, this was like 2023. The people who are gonna see success this year are the people who are able to gather people in a room. And I was kind of like, what would that look like for me around social media agency? Like, why would I gather people in a room? Like make content, whatever. We were just starting with podcasting at that time and I was like coming home and I was like, you know, I wish there was like a fast foundations feeling at home. Like I wish there was a way I could just get a group of people together for us to talk business. So we started to run these little pop up dinners. 10 people, 30 people. I know you're doing something similar as well with like your girlfriends, like you know, just getting a bunch of people together to like chat business. We started selling the tickets, they started selling out like rapid fire. People would come, we could not get them to leave. Like it would be like five hours in and we'd be like, like, you don't have to go home, but you can't stay here. Like you gotta go. Like it's, it's time to go. We were like shutting restaurants down and, and so we started to run, you know, larger events because really the high idea behind it was like behind high by women is like bringing together women to grow their networks and magic in their business. And like this like energy I have around networking and Maria shares. We wanted to share with other people. Like, be in the room, add value, make a connection. Like, offer support. Like, and like, it's just. We just don't have as much in Canada as you guys do in the States. Like, you guys have so many events, like, everywhere, all the time. And now we're starting to get more, but at the time, there wasn't much. And so we started to run it. We're on our fifth one that's coming up on March 7th, but already. I know. And we do two big ones a year. Like, it goes by so fast. But our Last one had 180 women. We had Marina from Crane cultivate come speak. She was amazing. Just Jovanovich, who's been in the community. Miriam, who's an elite mastermind. Seriously, guys, all my friends, this is where they come from. I met Marina and past foundations. So it's like, you know, get in the room. That's who we'll speak at your events. But, yeah, that's really, like, it was amazing. We had 180 women, and people were like, this one was the best one yet. Everyone says every time, which is so sweet. But really the focus of it has been about them growing their network. Like, the speakers are a huge piece of it. They inspire people. You can take a nugget that can really shift your business, but really, like, our heart behind it is getting women to network with each other and pour into each other.

Okay, so you are social media podcasting events. Let's talk about podcasting a bit. Because what is so full circle is that you are sitting in this chair right now because of a podcast.

Totally.

That we decided to do.

And I could have literally never imagined, like, one that, like, we'd offer podcasting as a service. Like, never like that. I don't know how that would have even come into my brain. You know, when something happens, you're like, duh. But, like, it takes you a while to get there. Like, people kept being like, will you offer podcasting? You'd be like, no, no, no, absolutely not. And they'd be like, how is that that different than social media? Like, no, no. And then now it's like our premium offering. But, yeah, it's like, it's been like a total journey, right? Like, from going to listening to podcasts to then now producing them. And now it's become, like, such a hack for so many business owners. Like, I don't think everyone should have a podcast because it is definitely, I think, a huge time commitment, as you know.

I was just going to ask you. I'm like, do you think anyone can have a podcast? What does that look like?

No, I don't, but not because I think if you want one. Yes. But I think sometimes people do it for the wrong reason. And I think there's a few things with podcasting that people don't realize, and I think the number one thing is that it is, like, the ultimate networking hack.

It really is.

Like, I look at some of the people you've had on your podcast, and it's like, do you think the connections came from you having a podcast, Christina?

If I sat here and wrote down, like, all of the people who have come in my life or the miracles that have happened or the, like, investors or the people that have come into our masterminds, the friendships that I've made, Like, a lot of my friends have come by way of my podcast.

Yeah.

Which is. It's been the biggest. It's been one of the biggest investments in my life. Like, time monetarily, energetically. Like, it is no joke. Like, oh, are you ready to show up twice a week, every week or more, no matter if you're like, I'm literally getting over a cold right now.

Yeah.

It's like, no matter if you feel like a bag of assumptions happens in your life, that's traumatic. You lose somebody in your family, like, are you ready to show? Are you ready to continue showing up? It's not that you can't skip it, but it's that you are gonna have to live your life in a way that you are so committed to that that life is gonna life you hard while you have it, because it just does anyway. So it's like, it's literally been the biggest investment, but the blessings on the other side are beyond anything that I could sit here and ever tell you. I could sit for hours and try to tell everyone the blessing that it's been. I talk about the importance of sleep and reaching your goals all the time on this podcast, but I also know that you're probably wound pretty tight like I am, and you might have trouble transitioning from your daytime to your nighttime. So I added something that I absolutely love, because, you know, skincare is a big thing for me in 2026. And I love OCS Dream Collection.

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Uno reverse you again. But like, when would you say you started to like, see traction with your podcast monetarily? Like, because this is the question I get all the time where people are like, oh gosh, you know, it's funny. Like, I'll have people and they're like, oh, like I want a podcast, but like, I want to monetize it in a year. And I'm like, you can monetize it with your own offerings, like day one. So like, talk about yourself, like, and the things you do and that's fine, but I know you actually have like, ads and all of that and your top 25 podcasts. You're, you're in the charts. I'll take it all the time. I screenshot you guys.

This is like one of my favorite. You want to know? Like, I don't even know. It's just like, it's such an act of service. She screenshots when I'm in the top 25 and sends it to me. And it's in the morning because she's way ahead or she's ahead of me in time.

I'm.

I'm Pacific time.

You're Eastern.

Right.

And so I wake up to it at 6am with this little, like, you know, screenshot, and I'm like, oh, my gosh.

I know. I can't wait till it's number one. Number one. I'm calling you in the middle of the night, girl.

How are we gonna do that with all these paid spots now?

Yeah, fair, fair.

If I.

If I get a number up to number, like 10.

Okay.

Because the top 10 are usually always paid.

Okay, great. It's a whole other 10 and under. I'm 10 and under.

Word.

Like, that means that we.

We.

We just like, I don't even know what we did. We broke the system.

Oh, my God. I. I always tease Chris, too, because I sent him one. It was like. He was like, I can't remember what number it was like, because, you know, you fluctuate. Like, sometimes you're 25. Some, like, even for me, sometimes I'm 60, sometimes I'm 200.

Like, I'm like, oh, hi, 200.

Like, don't screenshot that for me. But I sent Chris one that was like. And I was like, look, like you're in the top 200. And he's like, you do under 25 for Lori. Like, I'm like, okay, okay. But what would you say, like, you know, you were able to, like, monetize it? Because I think that's a question a lot of podcasters have is like, you know, listening to your podcast, you've been at this a long time. Like, you've been putting in the rep. So it's kind of like, you know, nine years. Yes. Like, you've been working, Working a muscle there. Right? So how has that monetization journey look for you?

I'm like, is it 10 years? I think it's been almost. I think this year will be 10 years.

In May, do we do an earn your happy party? I really just want you guys to run some live events, please.

Now I want to change the name. Like, no. It's so craz. Crazy.

I know.

It's just like 10 years ago, I was a different person.

I was talking about this.

This started as like, happiness and self development, and it's been business like the last three or four years, so it's really interesting. But anyway, with that said, you know, I didn't necessarily get into the podcast for the ads game. That wasn't like what I was thinking when I first started. I wanted to convert people to our offerings, and I did that. That fairly quickly.

Yeah.

So I monetized it from the beginning fairly quickly. There's no way of totally knowing whatsoever what money came from that. But I will tell you, in every room that we put on Mastermind Wise and that I would speak in, I would ask who listened to the podcast.

Yeah.

And if, even if it was audiences that weren't mine, I swear to you, there, there would always be at least like, like 10 to a third of the room, depending on how long I'd had the podcast.

Yeah.

And so I do know that we monetized right away, but we were also investing. I mean, a podcast can be anywhere from pending who you work with, you know, 1500 to 6000 to $7000 a month on how many episodes you have, how much you're doing on YouTube videos, all of those things. So I did get to monetize on my things right away, but I didn't do ads until year. My gosh, maybe it was year five or six.

Wow, that's awesome.

And I, you know, I. First of all, I remember going into. I actually went into Dear Media to see if I could be partners with them, and we had a meeting and it was wonderful. But some of the things that they were offering in terms of, like, when you get to be a part of them, which they're awesome. You guys have to know what your desired goals are.

Yes, totally.

And I wasn't able to have as much freedom with my podcast in terms of who I was, you know, gonna have on what they were gonna advertise, what I was advertising, and when, you know, did I have any leeway with if the, if the episode, if I was running a little bit late when it was going into production. And so you have to know thyself and you have to know what you want. So there's a pros and cons to every single ad agency and every single, you know, podcast agency that you would be going with.

Yeah.

So I think that you have to go in clearly with a podcast and know what your desired goals are from the top 100.

Yeah. I also, I don't know if this is a hot take, but I think if you're in the podcast to monetize it, like, ads wise, you might not be in it for the long haul just because of how long it takes to get to that point. Like.

Right.

You can't add programmatic ads until a thousand downloads, like a month. So from there it's like, unless you're doing brand deals, which if you have a large audience, you could, like, kind of combine them. We've seen, we've clients who do that where they're not quite at the thousand, but maybe they have a huge Instagram following. So they're like, you know, throwing in reels and stuff like that. Like, lots you can do. But I really think it has to be for, like, the love of the conversation. It does. And love of the topic. Like, I love my podcast because I get to talk about, like, community and events and marketing and I can talk to amazing people. And that's so fun for me. And so is it monetized now? Yeah, but at the same time, it like, didn't start that way and I needed to keep putting in. Putting in the reps. And so. So I think for people who are thinking about starting a podcast, like, we've launched over 50 podcasts. So I've seen people do it, like, in the business niche, I've seen people do it. In the weight loss niche, I've seen people do it educators, like, all different types, A payment merchant, like, all different types of people. But it has to be like, you're down for the conversation.

It really does. Because like you said, there's. There's kind of a spot for your downloads in order to start making money. And in order to start making money too, you have to know, like, well, you're going to have to pay for the. The podcast first.

Yeah, for sure. Okay.

So a lot of people are going to have to find partners that just start to cover the 1500-5K, whatever. That's. What would you say is the average range of startup for cost?

I would say, like, if you aren't doing it yourself because, like, you can get crafty. Right. Like, this is the thing too. It doesn't need to look like this. Right. You and I are doing, like, this is probably an evolution of your podcast. It looks sure. Like this is in Lori's house. I'm gonna say this is in Laurie's house. I feel like I'm like, yeah, massive studio. But, like, it doesn't have to look like this. It can be on Riverside that you edit on Riverside yourself. It can look like that if you.

Just want to get your message out.

Like, I have tons of resources on my website atthesocialsnippet.com where, like, we teach you how to do all this stuff for free. But I would say Average, you're probably looking at 1500-2000 on the lower end. If you're not doing like really elaborate like YouTube videos and things like that. And YouTube's different than podcasting, but we're seeing that there's like such an uptick of people watching podcasts on YouTube. But, but are there super successful audio only podcasts? Yeah. And they do well. Right. So it's really about finding your, your kind of jam with it.

Okay. So you're gonna wanna find, you know, in, in the beginning when you don't have the downloads yet. Like I know you said a thousand is kind of where you can start finding something when, if you wanna work with an agency, they always want around 10,000 at least. This is from the last like year that I, that I've been working with people. They're looking for 10,000 downloads in the first two weeks, like per episode. It's kind of like that range that they want you and it can be a little lower, it can obviously of course be higher, but they want you within that range for the partners that they are placing on your podcast. And then once you guys get a partner, once you guys get an ad or an ad partner, like you can't skip your podcast.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

You have signed and said that you will have this episode. For it to go out on, you will need to have an episode because they are paying you. So it is like now you are in and you absolutely by no circumstance cannot have an episode go out or you will get a bad reputation and you will lose those partnerships because this world is very, very small.

Yeah, totally.

So you do have to know, I think from the beginning if you're going to want to like exactly. Like you said, the ads game is completely different. Unless you're somebody, like I want to use an example, let's say you're, you're a person who owns a med spa and you have got like such a niche audience and maybe it's not that large, but it's like a dream audience. They're tuning in because they want to know exactly what you're doing and you're giving great content and you get a partner who's already a partner for you in your med spa. Like maybe it's, you know, skin farm or maybe it's skin science, whatever, whatever, whatever type of partner that you know could pay you for that. And you work out your own deals. This is what a lot of people do. You have like great people that would be the perfect fit for them. They already know they could probably Capitalize on this because they know that their people will convert y and maybe you work your own deal with them. Now, is there, is there a world where you do that with. With people or that people have come to you and been like, hey, how do I do this?

Yeah, we don't do it for people. But I would say, like, I've done this for my own podcast, right? Like, and I do it for High Vibe women because I collect sponsorships. And like, if you have something else going on on top of your podcast, leverage that. Like, that is the big thing. I would say it's like, if you've got a good social media audience, if you've got a good email list, if, like, you know, you run in person events, like, that's actually how we started monetizing my podcast with ads was I would sell High Vibe women sponsorships and I'd be like, like, you get 10 ads in my podcast. No one has ever asked me for my podcast numbers. Like, no one. Like, now it's like my podcast is like, you know, like, growing and lots of good stuff's happening, which is awesome. But like, it took a bit of time, like, you know, to get to that point, obviously. But, like, people are, I think, not as savvy to podcast numbers as they are to social media numbers. I don't know. Would you agree?

Yeah.

And so I think it's like, really, like, if you're going to go to partners, I think those dream partners are it, like going to. We. We actually have a mutual connection with somebody who. She does like, wellness stuff, like GLP1. Like, that's kind of her. Her niche. And she has a smaller podcast and she got it like, super sponsored because she was able to be like, hi, like, this is an ideal audience for you. Like, you want to talk to these people. Whether it's 50, 100, 200, 500 downloads. It's. Those are like, like super engaged listeners. So I think don't knock it if you, you don't have a big audience sense. But I think really, like, those brand deals can be. Can be really helpful.

What do we think? What do you think for podcasting coming up this next year? Is it oversaturated? Do you think people should still do it? Like, how do you know you should do it?

I think the way you know you should do it is if you have an inkling to do it. Like, if you have, like, it on your heart. I hear this all the time. People are like, 20, 26 goals, start a podcast. I'm like, if that's your goal, do it. Like, if you're into it and you're okay with the longing. If you are someone who needs fast results with something, this isn't the medium.

Yeah, I agree.

But I would say, like, also get smart with it. Use it for your social content. Like, you do such a great job with this, right? Like, we'll probably have a reel on this. Like, you know, you'll use many chat, like, things like that, like, really make such a big difference. So I would say that's a piece of it. Like, if you're feeling it, it's definitely not oversaturated. And I always say this because people, like, think about Instagram. They're like, do you think I should, like, not go on Instagram? And like, five years ago when I started my business, I was like, there's lots of people on Instagram. I don't know that I need a business. Instagram, yeah. Imagine I didn't do that. Like, I've grown so much business through that. So it's like, don't. You're not behind. Like, the only thing you're probably a little behind on is Facebook. I would say if, like, you know, on Facebook, yeah, you can sit that one out. But like, all the other ones, I think, like, it's never too late. You have no idea what's going to hit. Like, even TikTok, like, so many people are always like, well, TikTok's TikTok. Like, I already, like, you know, I've already started whatever. You have one viral video that could change your whole life business, right? So. So, yeah, I think it's just about leaning in. Okay, Uno Reverse for Lori now. Because I think people are actually going to want this information. Do people. Uno Reverse. You on this podcast, like, asking questions.

I've never said Uno Reverse, but I love it.

Yeah, okay, perfect. Maybe it's a Canadian thing. You've never said Uno Reverse before, other.

Than only while playing the game.

If someone has, you know, a podcast and they're feeling their podcast is small and they're like, oh, like, how would you recommend that they grow their downloads? And what were the things that worked for you? Obviously, it's a different season. I always say I'm like, I would kill to have Lori's Isagenix business go on Facebook Live. Like, where it would hit people, like, so fun. But, like, what would you say now is the things that would maybe work to grow a podcast? Maybe, like, what worked for you?

Oh, my goodness. Okay. I. I think that growing your community is going to help you grow your podcast because there's no. There's not like an algorithm. It's not like people are going on. And Apple is not trying to help you push your podcast out. It's almost like podcasts are like the book world, where it's like, okay, yeah, you got your podcast, you got your book deal, now what are you gonna do to drive people to it? It's like when you get into a retail store with a product too. It's the same exact thing. Okay, cool. Yeah, we're not driving audience to this. You're driving audience to this. So I think YouTube is a huge thing that I wish I would have done more of from the beginning.

And now I.

It's still. It's not too late at all. In fact, it's just really like, people are really starting to discover podcasts from YouTube. So I think a YouTube, having somebody on your team who's going to give you some YouTube shorts, you're going to do long, long form on there. Like, really growing your YouTube channel from that, because that is more discoverable. YouTube is more discoverable, and people are watching them on there, so they're not having to also move over to your podcast that you can really, like, grow your YouTube following there. For me, one of the biggest ways that this launched is because I had an event and I launched the podcast at the event and I had an ask. So if you. You don't have to have an event to do this, but you can create a big moment with your audience and your people. So what I did is I said, hey, I'm launching my podcast. I can't remember what we did for them, but I had asked them for subscribes, and at the time, it wasn't even subscribes. It was like.

Like you.

I don't know what you do. I can't remember what it was, but then they like. And. And if they could share it to some of their friends. So I had an audience of 300 people. I took a moment in the event to launch the podcast, and I think maybe I drew some names or did some different things for people or whatever. I can't remember what I gave away some things. But imagine if you could get your audience, even if it's like 50 people all at once. You guys, this is what you're trying to do. You're trying to drum up energy around the launch.

Yeah.

So you're. You need to create a launch moment for sure.

Yeah.

And get that out to the world. I did that with the second podcast that I launched when I did Girlfriends in business for a while. We wrote a list of all of the people that would be willing to share it and go, like, rate and review it. That seemed to push it out to the world in a pretty good way. Yeah, that got that up in the charts pretty quickly. So what I would say is build community around it consistently. It's not always the big guests that are going to help you grow at all. I would say, though, it can definitely help. But I would write your dream list of guests and go after them, like, consistently. Like, be very, very consistent with your follow up in order to get that person that you really want on the show and understand that you're a small show. It's probably going to take a really long time for you to get one of these people. Or the best way to get a larger person on your show is to join their community and add a ton of value, be undeniably valuable, and then they'll probably end up coming on your show eventually.

Yeah, I can't say that enough. Like, in terms of relationships, so many people. I was like an OG in my friend group of having Chris on my podcast. I think I was like the first one of, like, all of us. And everyone was like, how'd you do it? And I was like, I went to Roundtable.

Yeah.

And I asked him. And then I came to Arizona and I recorded with him. Like, that was like the whole thing. Right? And I think it's. That relationship piece is so big. And I was going to say on the launch piece, like, so We've launched over 50 podcasts and our mutual bestie, Ally Aruda. Yes. Love, love. Yeah. So much love.

We're obsessed. We could sit here for hours and talk about her.

I know it'd be nice if she was here.

I know we'd have so much fun. Next time.

Yeah, Next one. Yeah, that'd be so sweet. Yeah, Allie's the best. But even Ali, when she launched her podcast, we launched it with her and she ran an event. She had a hundred women there. And that's what we did. We, like, were like, hey, guys, you're here celebrating, like, you know, women, inspiring women were doing the thing. Ali's launching the inspired Move podcast. We're so proud of her. And like, I did the ass, so it was like less ako for Ali. And I was like, love it if you like, rate, review, subscribe, download. And she was like, number eight or nine in entrepreneurship. Like, like, I was like, I scrolled down. I called her at 6am and I was like, Allie, like, this is crazy size.

Oh, my gosh.

So cool. So. But it just took that, like, buzz and that momentum, and I think treating your podcast like it's a book launch, like, it's this thing that you're really excited about and that you're proud of and that you're gonna have some great conversations. And I also love what you shared about, like, big guests, because I think people think that's their ticket. Like, they'll like, they're like, I'm gonna get Lori on my podcast, and Lori is gonna be the reason why everybody listens, and she might be. And I will say, you are more gracious than a lot of big guests I've seen with clients in terms of sharing and, like, you know, promoting other people's podcasts. When you're a guest, like, you're. You're so gracious. But some busy people are busy people, and promoting their podcast isn't their priority. So I would say if you do have a big guess, something to do, make it a slam dunk for why they should promote it. Provide them assets, make a killer reel for them. That's like, you know, pay for it. Pay for a real. Pay for a studio. Like, pay for that time. So that this way, it's actually, like, such a banger that people are like, oh, yeah, of course. So even, like, I've had you, and I've had Jacqueline and. And Johnson, and I've had Chris, and I've had some amazing guests, and when I pitch bigger guests, I'm like, hey, I've had these people. This is what it looked like. And people are like, yeah, of course. Right? So it's really, I think, adding that, like, extra value and for. For the. The guests as well.

Is there anything else that you want to share around podcasting for people who are thinking about it?

Yeah, I would just remind people, like, I think it's easy to feel like it is oversaturated and, like, you know, you scroll and it's like. But. So there's like, a stat. I can't remember what is offhand, but it's, like, less than. Like, it's like 70% of people don't get past the 10th episode. So it's like. Like, you. You have the muscle for it, and you want to do it batch, record a whole bunch of people, set a bunch of episodes, set yourself up for interviews with a whole bunch of people, get the equipment. Like, you know, don't. Like, you know, you don't have to ball out and, like, you know, build yourself in home podcasting studio unless, unless you want to. But I would say don't go like, you know, too hard but like invest in it. Invest in the time and make it like a part of your business. And you know, even working with somebody, whether that's me, whether that's someone else, like working with someone where you're able to like talk to them about what is the monetization strategy behind this? Like what's the long term vision of what this can do for my business? That's I think the important piece.

What would you say to people who are like the, the content piece just gets a little overwhelming for people. How do we break that down and make it easier for them? And just so you guys know, like a lot of my episodes for years and even still sometimes were recorded on my phone. Like not even without a microphone. Like I'll still do it when I'm traveling into my I voice record notes and I've never had a complaint about it.

Yeah, I'm not complaining.

Never. No. Maybe people hate it, but they haven't written a review. And let me tell you, people write reviews pretty freely. But not about that. Definitely about one of my funny reviews that I get is that I say oh, too much and I'm like, oh, I'm so sorry about that. I'm not gonna stop. I'm not gonna stop anyway. But they, they write reviews freely, but they haven't. About my phone. How do we, how I can we free people up around? You know, you can, you can like, it can just be you on the episode, it could be interviewing your partner, it could be interviewing a friend. Like, like free them up around content.

It's.

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Like, I always use workout analogies. I don't know why it's like, but there's. Because there's so many parallels. But I think like, it's like saying, I can't do the half marathon, so I'm not gonna take the walk.

Yep.

You know, like, it's still good for your body to go outside, right? It's still good to drink some water. It's like, totally. You know, it's still good to, you know, take the, you know, dog for a walk. Walk or do whatever. Right. And so it's the same thing with podcasting. Like, it doesn't have to be perfect. It could just be you. It could be you in the closet, like some Jenna Kutcher. Like, that's how she got started. It's like in her closet with her, her Mac, like that and that she has a top rated podcast. So, like, there's so many things that like, you can do to make it like, really simple for yourself and just like dropping the perfectionism. And really it is a little bit about like the muscle and the consistency. Your first ones are gonna suck. You're gonna look back on them, you're gonna be like, oh, like, I actually don't even recommend people, like, interview their dream guests as their first people. Oh, God. I know the only person you know. I'll give a. A shout out you because you were the guest. Anna Lano is a client of mine and she has had such Jillian Harris, like all these like banger guests. Right? Like, so good. And she's done such a good job. But normally when people are like, oh, I'm going to be going after people with huge followings, I'm always like, I would try with some friends. Like, try yourself.

Give yourself a year.

Yeah, yeah. Like, just talk to a few people. Right. So you can have people that like, you know, just, just try it. Just Flex the muscle, get content out of it. If you're doing it scrappy, like, take little clips and post them. You never know what's going to, like, resonate with people. And I've been surprised, like, some of my best, like, performing episodes when I look at the stats. One, it's like things that people search, SEO, rich titles, like, that's the big one is that, like, people want to know, like, how to rank on chat GPT. Like, just things where I, like, can teach. But the other thing, it's more like, you know, little ones where I was like, hey, I just was at this event and I had this download about this event. And, like, I'm like, I'm recording this in the hotel room.

Room y.

There's no video. I'm. I'm doing this. I like, you know, I have a little mini mic that was $20. I just plug in. So I think, like, yeah, just like, leaving some of that behind and, and even hearing from people like Lori who have great podcasts that, like, it doesn't have to look perfect all the time.

It's not going to. Yeah, it is not going to. And I, I would say if you asked a. A consistent podcaster how they felt about their podcast, who's not like, diary of a CEO or Mel Robbins who have. Has, you know, like 30 people on her team or 60 people, like, literally, you don't feel amazing about your content all the time. Yeah, I, I would say a third of my content, I'm like, okay, that's pretty good. Like, great job.

Yeah.

The rest you get in here and you do the reps. Like, it's just.

It's.

It's literally exactly like the gym.

See, I'm telling you.

Yeah. Like, maybe two workouts a month. I'm like, whoa. Like, really went hard. Hard. Crushed it, like, rocked that. A lot of them, you guys are, are. They're challenging. They're like, okay, I'm here. Yeah, that's how it feels. And it will turn you into an absolute, like, networking ninja. It will turn you into, like, an incredible speaker. Somebody who's able to not only talk and fill space when needed, but can also deeply listen.

Yeah.

And manage a conversation. You're going to learn how to do sales. You're going to learn how to close people. You're going to learn what motivates people, what drives them. You're going to, like, be so compassionate.

Yeah.

There's so many things that you are about to get a master class. If you're thinking of starting a podcast, it's it's so not about, like, I. I would do this for free, because I have. Yeah, I will continue to do this for free because I'll have a bad day, Christina. And all of a sudden I'm like, sitting in a. Like, across the. From you, you know, And I. I just remember my.

Why.

It's like, I remember this is about people. This is about what we're doing together. This is about our biggest vision. This is about helping people reach their biggest dreams.

And it's like. That's right.

Because people remind you when you're in deep conversation and you have no idea.

Like, where your podcast is going to land for someone or someone who's going to binge an old episode, or, like, something's going to come up. And it's like, I've had it so many times, Lori, where, like, people have been like, oh, I was listening to this episode and I actually felt like I was about to give up on my business. And you gave this great tip and then, like, reminded me I should just keep it going, like, totally. And I'm like, oh, great. I didn't even know who you are. So that's, like, very kind that you listen to my podcast, but it's like, it's. It's really about that. And I think, like, Lori, like, we have like, a mutual connection of someone who was like, thinking about taking their life and listen to your podcast.

Yep.

And like, it, like, they're still here, right? Yeah. That's like, literally life. I'm like, I'm about to eat this. That's literally life changing.

Literally.

Like. Like, even if you just had that one situation from your 10 years of podcasting, it's all worth it.

That's already everything.

Right. And so I think it's like, you have no idea the impact that you could have on someone. I think this, with events, I think this was like, like, even, like, you know, mentor collective. Like, it's the questions people are asking. They're getting this real time advice. They're in it. Right. Like, a lot of people who are in mentor collective, they're like, they're in it, in their business. Right. They're trying to scale past 500k. They're grinding, they're hustling, they're doing the thing, and maybe they're not seeing results until they get in that room and then they get all these people who are cheering them on and supporting them and accountability and your mentorship. And it's like, that makes all the difference. And so it's the same thing with Podcasting, where it's like, keep it going, keep trying. Like, and your first episodes, you might get 10 downloads and two of them might be your parents.

Yeah, exactly. And the rest of your friends.

Message me, if you're under 10, download, I'll download you. But, like, it's just. I think it's really just about, you know, seeing the long vision for your business. And anyone, I think, who listens to your podcast and who's in your community, I think would resonate with this, is that, yes, we do this for money. Right. Like, you know, it's nice to buy things, but your dogs need treats.

They really do.

Yeah, they do. But ultimately, like, what we're doing is purpose and what an amazing way that we get to share our purpose with people where they get to listen to. To us in their earbuds when they're driving their kids to school, when they're like, like, even I think about, you know, Chris, like, I was in such a vulnerable season of my life, Right. I'm working a 9 to 5 I don't love. I have this side hustle that's booming. I'm from an immigrant family. I'm a first generation Canadian. I'm the first person in my family to go to college. Like, like, and I can't leave all that behind to do social media. And I'm listening to this person telling me anything's possible. Like, listening to your family story, listening to like, like the things that changed for you guys when you believed in yourselves. How much that poured belief into me. And now I get the opportunity to pour belief through high VI women, through my clients, into other people. This all came from a podcast.

Yeah.

Right. So it's just like, believe that this is possible for you to. No matter if it's 10 downloads or 10,000.

I. I mean, I remember so much of this started because I listened to Lewis. How's podcast? I mean, like, it started everything for me because I would go on my runs and I would just listen over and over and Gabby Bernstein too. Those two, like, over and over and over and over again. And that literally gave me the life and the path.

Yeah.

To be able to do all of this. Which then, yeah. Nobody knows the impact you're about to create. So I'm excited for everybody listening. I love the fact that we get to work together and mentor Collective Mastermind as well.

Yes.

So you also coach people in there and everybody's obsessed with you.

Oh, so sweet. I know.

I'm just being honest. I'm a Sagittarius, so.

Yeah. Yeah. You weren't obsessed with me. You tell me.

I would.

You would. You wouldn't. You.

You just. I wouldn't say anything.

Yeah, my husband's a Sagittarius too. I know. Yeah.

You just don't say anything. You're just like, uhhuh.

I'm like, what do you think of this dress? He's like, it's on. I'm like, okay, it's on deck. Got it changing.

But also, you have your business. Businesses too.

Yeah.

So tell me about how we can work with you.

Oh, so sweet. Yeah. So obviously, we've got High Five Women, which is our events company, and we run our events. We have an online community as well, which Lori just taught in and absolutely slayed. So many people are using the term informed girlfriend now all the time. They're like, so Lori was talking about the informed girlfriend theory. I'm like, I think it's a. I don't think it's a theory. This is not published anywhere. So, yeah, you're gonna have to get. You're gonna have to trademark this too. But, yeah, so we've got high five women, which is an amazing community. We have an event March 7th in Burlington, Ontario, but. And then I've got the social snippet, which is where we do. Done for you social media and done for you podcasting. Got about 90 clients now, which is amazing. It's grown so much over the years, which has been awesome.

Amazing.

Yeah, it's. It's the best. It's so cool. And it's like, I see people really grow. Which is the best part of it for me is that, like, we have, like, we have original day one clients that have been with us for five years. Years. And, like, so being with them, being part of their journey has been absolutely amazing. So, yeah, those are kind of my two ventures. But you can also find me in the mentor collective, where I get to coach on all things social, all things podcasting. You know, supporting Melissa with marketing, like, in terms of, like. Because people get to ask so many questions, and always I gotta be email marketing. I'm like, that's not me, that's Melissa. But it's. Yeah, it's so great to be able to collaborate. And the questions people asking there are so amazing. But that's a great place. Place for people to get both of us.

It's very true.

I know.

So fun. Well, I had so much fun talking to you on this podcast. Next time you're in America, come back.

Yeah, likewise. I'm honored to be here. Of course. And maybe we'll bring Ally with me next time. But no, I'm just so honored, Lauren. Like, you guys are just such a big part of my story and so anytime you ask me to do literally anything, I'll do it. So I'm, I'm here, but yeah. Noted. Need a kidney. I'm there. But yeah. I'm just grateful for you and I know that your impact journey is just the beginning. I'm just, I'm just part of the little, little chicken nuggets there.

I'm so grateful for you, truly. You guys go find her. Go follow her. She is a living, breathing, walking example of exactly, like, how you will be successful and you will be successful for the rest of your life because of how you are and the value that you add.

So thanks again.

Oh, Lori, thank you so much. Cry.

Bye, everyone.

Yeah, bye, Kermit the Frog. Sam.