The Social Circus

EP108 - Exploring Canva and Business Flexibility with Marie Fox

Welcome back to another episode of the Social Circus hosted by Sarah Thomson! This week, we dive deep into the world of virtual assistance and creative design with Marie Fox, the savvy founder of Crafty Fox by Design. Marie brings a wealth of experience to the table, sharing her journey from traditional administrative roles to becoming a Canva guru. Whether you’re a small business owner or an aspiring VA, this episode unveils practical insights on leveraging Canva for professional growth and managing the complex dynamics of work-life balance.
Key Takeaways:
Canva Expertise: Learn Marie’s favorite Canva features, such as the background removal tool and design guides, which help elevate business presentations and social media posts.
Virtual Assistance Evolution: Understand the evolving role of VAs and how specializing in tools like Canva can set you apart in the competitive landscape.
Real-World Applications: Hear real-life scenarios where Marie's Canva skills provided indispensable support for her clients, ranging from document formatting to social media branding.
 
Crafty Fox By Design
  
Instagram (@craftyfoxbydesign)
 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Marie-fox/

EP107 - Common Mistakes in Meta Ads Management

In this week's episode of the Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson delves into the most common mistakes businesses make with their Meta ads. As a digital marketing coach, Sarah sees these mistakes frequently and offers her expert insight into how they can be avoided, ensuring more effective allocation of advertising budgets.
Sarah starts by explaining the transition from Facebook ads to Meta ads, highlighting the various placement options such as Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and Audience Network. She emphasizes the importance of having a clear advertising strategy and understanding what you are trying to achieve with your ads, especially for solopreneurs and small business owners.
Sarah further discusses the importance of timing and budget. She advises against rushing ads and endorses a planning period of 6 to 8 weeks to allow proper testing and optimization. By discussing the critical metrics such as cost per click (CPC) and cost per conversion (CVR), she stresses the significance of a realistic budget to achieve desired outcomes. Additionally, Sarah emphasizes the necessity of testing different creative aspects of ads to optimize performance, underscoring the unpredictability of user preferences.
Lastly, Sarah highlights the importance of audience targeting. Drawing from her experience, she advocates for using custom audiences and lookalike audiences in Meta's Ads Manager for better ad performance. She advises against generalized targeting and encourages businesses to refine their audience segments to cater to specific demographics effectively.
Key Takeaways:
Meta Ads Transition: Understanding the shift from Facebook ads to Meta ads and the comprehensive placement options.
Importance of Strategy: Why having a clear strategy is crucial for successful ad campaigns.
Effective Timing: The benefits of planning your ad campaigns well in advance.
Budget Considerations: Insights into how budget affects ad performance, including key metrics like CPC and CVR.

EP106 - Search Queen Sonja from The Search Republic Talks SEO and Business Success

In this episode of the Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson welcomes the Search Queen, Sonja, an expert from the Search Republic, for an insightful discussion about SEO and digital marketing. Together, they delve into Sonja's inspiring business journey, her deep understanding of Google search, and the strong ethical convictions that underpin her company's success.
From her roots in traditional advertising to her evolution into a growth catalyst for businesses online, Sonja shares the motivations and experiences that shaped her agency. She articulates the importance of stripping away the industry jargon to connect with her clients and shares candid stories of industry malpractices that compelled her to start her own venture. A strong emphasis is placed on building trust with clients, especially those who have been jaded by past experiences with digital marketing agencies.
Sonja discusses her mission to empower business owners not only in sales but also by giving them the gift of time through her heart-centered business approach.
Sarah and Sonja explore how mindset can significantly impact the success of Google Ads campaigns.
A strong narrative unfolds around the ethics of business practices in digital marketing and the universal need for transparency and honesty.
Sonja touches upon the challenges of owning a business, from managing expectations to spearheading results-driven SEO strategies.
 
www.thesearchrepublic.com.au@‌the_search_republic@‌sonjathesearchqueen

EP105 - Unraveling the Good Girl Conditioning: Amanda Louisa on Embracing Feminine Energy

In this episode, we welcome Amanda Louisa, a former corporate lawyer turned sustainability advocate. Amanda shares her inspiring journey from the grind of corporate law to discovering wellness through nervous system regulation and somatic experiencing therapies. Her story is all about resilience, self-discovery, and redefining success, particularly for women stuck in the "good girl" mold.
Amanda and I chat about the often-overlooked concept of feminine energy and how it plays a crucial role in successful entrepreneurship. She delves into her personal struggles and triumphs, emphasizing the need for authentic workplace well-being initiatives and flexible work rhythms that honor our natural energy cycles.
Key Takeaways:
Amanda's journey from high-stress corporate life to embracing wellness and feminine energy.
The importance of breaking free from the "good girl" conditioning to achieve sustainability in business and personal life.
Advocacy for nervous system regulation and somatic experiencing therapies as essential for mental health.
Emphasizing personalized work rhythms and strategic rest to boost creativity and productivity.
Notable Quotes:
"As soon as I hit the professional world, I kind of abandoned [spiritual practices]." - Amanda Louisa
"Unless we're working with our body and the somatic side of our nervous system, we're only dealing with 20% of the solution." - Amanda Louisa
"If you think about males or people who have testosterone as the dominant hormone in their system, they have a linear output of energy...whereas women...have different hormonal outputs at different times in our cycle." - Amanda Louisa
"It took me so long to learn how I want to work." - Sarah Thomson
"The staff is taking that permission of I can do my work the way I want to do it and that's where success lies." - Amanda Louisa
Resources:
Instagram: Instagram (@theamandalouisa)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-louisa/
Website: Amanda Louisa Services — Amanda Louisa
Dive into the full episode for an in-depth exploration of these themes with Amanda and me. Stay tuned to the Social Circus for more thought-provoking conversations!

EP104 - Strategies for Growing Your Instagram Followers

Welcome to an informative episode of the social circus, where host Sarah Thomson celebrates reaching over 100 episodes and two years of sharing valuable social media, mindset, and business insights. Today's focus is a practical guide on effectively growing your Instagram following, a question often posed to Sarah in her capacity as a business coach.
In this episode, Sarah emphasizes the importance of having a cohesive and appealing Instagram profile, likening it to an inviting storefront that captures passersby's attention. Following this, she delves into several growth tactics, including the strategic use of Instagram reels and hashtags, leveraging collaborations and competitions, and engaging directly with the audience through comments and DMs. These practices underscore the necessity of daily, authentic interaction on the platform for optimal growth and audience engagement.
Key Takeaways:
Instagram Profile as Your Storefront: Ensure your Instagram profile is inviting and clearly communicates your business offering to encourage new followers.
Leverage Reels: Utilize Instagram reels to reach a broader audience, as reels are pushed out beyond your existing followers.
Hashtag Strategy: Maximize your content visibility by using up to 30 relevant hashtags on every post.
Collaborations and Competitions: Collaborate with similar non-competing businesses and consider running competitions to attract followers from overlapping audiences.
Engage Authentically: Spend time daily engaging authentically with other accounts through comments and direct messages to increase visibility and grow your following organically.
Notable Quotes:
"Think about your Instagram profile as something similar to having a storefront."
"Reels are the only type of content on Instagram that the algorithm will push out beyond your existing followers."
"Instagram have told us that they consider 30 hashtags to be best practice."
"People who are similar in terms of maybe demographic psychographic information hang out together or know each other."
"There is no express elevator to success. You always have to take the stairs."
Resources:
The Blooming Bids Academy - Sarah's membership platform for business coaching 
Online Social Butterfly - Sarah's Instagram handle for profile reference
YouTube Channel: Online Social Butterfly - Find free tutorial videos by Sarah Thomson 
Continue your learning journey by tuning in to the full episode to gain more in-depth guidance and actionable strategies to grow your Instagram following. Don't miss out on more episodes filled with insight—subscribe and join us next time at the social circus!

EP103 - Navigating Business Challenges: Staying Productive When Things Are Quiet

In this episode of the Social Circus, Sarah Thomson talks about the tough times businesses go through when things slow down. She starts by chatting about how comparing yourself to others on social media can mess with your head, and she's all about staying grounded during both personal and business growth. Sarah's got a reassuring and practical tone, offering up a mix of encouragement and advice for entrepreneurs in a slow phase.
She dives into how economic and global events can affect consumer spending and business, leading to big decisions for business owners. Drawing from her own experience, Sarah shares loads of strategies to make the most of quiet times. She highlights the importance of keeping clients happy, organizing your business stuff, and setting up efficient systems. Plus, she sprinkles in real-life examples to make her advice relatable.
 
Key Takeaways:
The perception of success on social media is not always indicative of reality, and comparing one's journey to others can be detrimental.
Quiet periods in business can be utilized for productive tasks such as nurturing client relationships, organizing files, and systematizing operations.
Implementing systematic approaches to email management, lead tracking, and financial audits can improve business efficiency and prepare one for future growth.
Upskilling through reading, podcasts, online courses, and even revisiting past educational materials can be a valuable use of downtime.
Taking supplementary jobs or alternate income sources during tough times is a pragmatic and jud

EP102 - Ee Zen Cha REAVA Solutions - Streamlining Business Processes and Implementing Systems for Growth

In this episode of The Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson sits down with the astute Ee Zen Cha, a meticulous Online Business Manager. They take a deep dive into the intrinsic value of business systems and processes, exploring the challenges and triumphs of building a structured operational model in today's dynamic entrepreneurial environment. Ee Zen's knowledge in creating process efficiencies is a beacon for business owners seeking to streamline their workflow and scale their ventures.
With a background in ISO 9001 internal auditing and a master's degree in engineering, Ee Zen applies her methodical and process-oriented skills to assist business owners in optimizing their operations. As an Online Business Manager, she specializes in executing strategy objectives and systemizing business processes, enabling female entrepreneurs to scale and grow their businesses efficiently. Her insights are born from over 13 years of experience in process improvement, both in the corporate world and the online business landscape.

EP101 - Kara Stokes Discusses the Impact of AI on the Industry

Kara Stokes has successfully transitioned from a copywriter to a brand message coach and is now making waves as an AI influencer for small businesses. With over six years of expertise, she's launched a second venture that teaches small business owners, particularly women, how to use Artificial Intelligence in marketing to gain a competitive edge. Her work focuses on content strategy, brand voice, and identity, aiming to empower women in the rapidly evolving AI space.
In an episode of the Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson chats with Kara Stokes about her journey from copywriting to coaching and her deep dive into AI. Kara discusses the importance of creating a brand identity that emotionally connects with customers, moving beyond visuals to establish meaningful brand principles. She shares insights on how AI is reshaping copywriting and reveals her personal and innovative uses of AI, from managing schedules to creating an AI cheerleader, all while exploring the future of creativity in the age of AI.
Key Takeaways:
Brand identity is a critical emotional connect between your business and customers, going beyond visual elements to how the business communicates and presents itself.
Kara advocates for "brand principles" over "brand values" to ensure a business's actions are in alignment with its declared ethos.
The AI revolution in copywriting has both shaken the industry and presented new opportunities for innovation and efficiency.
AI can serve as a valuable tool in life management and personal motivation, demonstrating versatility beyond content creation.
Thoughtful engagement with AI tools can refine and accelerate content development, even for experienced professionals like Kara.
 

EP100 - Importance of Consistency and Content Strategy

In the 100th episode of the Social Circus, Sarah Thomson delivers an engaging deep dive into the genesis and evolution of her podcast. Celebrating her half-centennial of episodes, Sarah provides a behind-the-scenes look at the marketing strategies and content creation process that underpin her podcasting success.
Sarah unfolds the tale of her podcast's inception back in March 2022, highlighting the intentional timing aligned with personal and business milestones. She elaborates on how podcasting serves as a medium to long-term marketing strategy and the importance of aligning podcast production with one's business growth phases. Sarah's authentic delivery resonates through insights on the tools, consistency, guest selection, and how she shaped her podcast to mirror her evolution from a social media to a broader digital marketing expert. With a personal touch, Sarah expresses gratitude to her listeners and lays down an enticing opportunity for them to win a VIP day with her.
Key Takeaways:
Podcasting is a medium to long-term marketing strategy best suited for businesses that have already established some level of personal brand recognition.
Consistency is crucial in podcasting, with Sarah never having missed a week since starting her podcast.
Content creation should reflect the host's personality and comfort zone, whether it's scripted or off-the-cuff delivery.
It is important for a podcast's name and content to be flexible enough to accommodate the growth and evolution of both the host and the show.
Hosting a podcast involves a variety of tasks, from recording to editing and promotion, which can be made easier with a well-established workflow and potentially using AI tools and assistance.

EP99 - Discover the benefits of a digital detox and how to implement it

In Episode 99 of the "Social Circus," host Sarah Thomson approaches an important milestone: the podcast's 100th episode. This episode features Sarah expressing her enthusiasm for the forthcoming competition in celebration of the 100th episode and gives an overview of what the audience can expect.
Sarah Thomson, an expert in social media and business mindset, discusses her ten-day break from the digital world. She offers insights on preparing for a technology hiatus and emphasizes the significance of being present, resting, and establishing boundaries in both personal and professional life.
The episode includes Sarah’s personal experiences during her digital detox. She talks about spending quality time with her family and her struggle to disconnect from her business. She urges listeners to reflect on their own use of technology and find a balance to enhance their well-being.

EP98 - Annie Gichuru Discusses Building Inclusive Businesses

In this thought-provoking episode of the Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson welcomes Annie Gichuru, a renowned racial equity coach whose work has been pivotal in steering online businesses towards intentional inclusivity. Together, they delve into the nuances of racial equity versus equality, providing listeners with an invaluable understanding of how to foster an inclusive environment in both personal and professional realms.
This episode shines a light on the often misinterpreted concepts of racial equality and equity. Annie explains the importance of recognizing individual circumstances to create equitable opportunities and outcomes. The conversation progresses to actionable strategies that businesses can implement, from auditing one's network and clientele to crafting inclusive lead magnets. Emphasizing the lifelong journey of learning inclusive practices, Annie guides listeners through recognizing unconscious bias and understanding the impact of microaggressions.
 
https://anniegichuru.com/https://www.instagram.com/annie.gichuruMicroaggressions Guide - https://anniegichuru.com/micro/

EP97 - Reflecting on Turning 50 and Embracing Self-Acceptance

This episode of The Social Circus featuring Sarah Thomson is a special solo episode where she reflects on turning 50 and shares her personal insights. Sarah shares her initial hesitance about sharing her age publicly and worrying about how it may affect her work in the digital marketing industry. 
In addition to this, Sarah discusses the importance of understanding and planning finances, as well as the impact of this understanding on her life. She admits to previously ignoring the bigger financial picture but, after taking a course on money finance and investing, she realized the significance of managing money. This education has empowered her to have clear plans for the future, particularly as her children grow older and become more independent

EP96 - Reflecting on Lessons Learned

In this episode of The Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson reflects on her journey through business and personal growth as she approaches significant milestones. Sarah offers a captivating discussion filled with rich lessons learned while navigating her professional path, including the growth of her podcast and celebrating her 50th birthday. This episode is not just a narrative - it's a collection of enlightening experiences that resonate with entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey.
Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the importance of embracing failure, the art of starting small and growing gradually, and the value of constantly experimenting and diversifying in business ventures. Sarah's vivid storytelling seamlessly integrates these themes, underpinning the conversation with a heartfelt call to action for listeners to take bold yet calculated risks in their endeavors.
Celebrating milestones and achievements in both business and personal life
Overcoming the pitfalls of overplanning and the benefits of 'failing fast'
Recognizing the potential within one's brand and exploring diverse business offerings
The critical importance of starting an email list and growing digital products early on
The significance of commemorating success, including the simpler moments of triumph in the realm of entrepreneurship

EP95 - Lessons Learned from 13 Years in Business: Advice for Entrepreneurs

In this episode, the host, Sarah Thomson, shares the key lessons learned from her 13 years in  business. With a background in corporate marketing, Sarah provides invaluable insights into running a business, adapting to change, and staying true to one's passions and instincts.
Key Takeaways:Don't rush decisions when starting your business; take time to research, plan, and understand the market you're entering.Focus on services that align with your skills and bring you joy, shaping your business to reflect your passion.Trust your instincts in business decisions – they can serve as a powerful guide in steering your enterprise in the right direction.Be open to change and growth; business services and structures can and should evolve with time and experience.

EP94 - Raising Awareness: Understanding Endometriosis

In episode 94 of the Social Circus the conversation takes a turn from the usual discussions on social media and entrepreneurship, delving into the personal and widespread issue of endometriosis. As Sarah shares her own experiences with the condition, listeners are drawn into a deeper understanding of a problem that affects a significant portion of women globally.
Opening with her own journey to diagnosis, Sarah unravels the complexities of living with endometriosis. In a heartfelt account, she describes the pain and challenges that come with the condition, as well as the societal and financial toll it can take on individuals.

EP93 - Mindful Parenting Expert Nina Visic Shares Wisdom on Balancing Business and Family

In this episode of the Social Circus, Sarah Thomson welcomes Nina Visic from Mindful Parenting Lifestyle. Nina shares her personal journey as a busy mom who discovered how mindful parenting techniques can make a big difference in family life. The conversation is all about how parents can handle the challenges of raising kids while juggling work, offering lots of helpful tips for listeners in similar situations.
Nina talks about how she went from feeling overwhelmed by parenthood to embracing and teaching mindful parenting principles. These techniques help bring calmness, better communication, and stronger family bonds. The episode is full of practical advice on dealing with triggers, setting up routines, and adapting to changes.
Here are the main points:
Mindful parenting can help parents stay calm and handle tough situations better.
Being aware of yourself and writing down your thoughts can help you understand your triggers and become a better parent.
Finding a routine that works for both work and family life is important for keeping everything balanced.
Practicing gratitude, like with the "Rose, Thorn, and Bud" exercise, can make family life more positive.
Being flexible, understanding, and talking openly are essential when family schedules change.
Some memorable quotes from the episode:
"It's all about making peace with both parts of your life, even if you're struggling."
"Having a regular mindfulness practice helps you stay calm in tough moments."
"Try to focus on the good things that come out of situations, not just what went wrong."
"Knowing your limits and your kids' limits helps you make decisions and adjust as needed."
"As my youngest started kindergarten, I'm figuring out a whole new routine for my workweek."
Nina also offers resources like her Mindful Parenting Course launching in March, memberships to Mindful Parenting Lifestyle, and one-on-one coaching sessions for personalized help. Listeners can connect with her on social media and explore her mindful parenting offerings for support and guidance.
 
mindfulparentinglifestyle.com.au

Ep92 Christine Ross - Helping Women Find Clarity and Inner Strength

In this episode of "The Social Circus," we meet Chris from "Head to Heart." She's all about helping women aged 40 to 80 shake off self-doubt and find their inner strength. Her goal? To make their lives full of good stuff like abundance and joy.
The big idea in the chat is figuring out why we do what we do. Chris talks a lot about squashing those negative thoughts we all have and replacing them with hopeful ones. She shares her own story, a moment that changed her life and made her want to help others. Her program is all about digging deep to find what really matters to her clients, which changes not just how they think but how they live.
Here are the key points:
Knowing yourself and swapping out negative thoughts for positive ones is super important.
Getting in touch with your true self helps you figure out what's really important, both in life and in business.
Values play a big role in making decisions and dealing with all the tricky parts of running a business.
There are ways to break out of autopilot mode and find joy and new opportunities every day.
It's crucial to reconnect with your own strengths and be kind to yourself by using your own name in self-talk.
 https://www.head2hearts.com.au/support-challenge
https://www.facebook.com/christine.ross.7946281
https://www.instagram.com/head2hearts/?hl=en

EP91 - Tips to grow your Business

In this episode, Sarah Thomson, a digital marketing expert, talks about how businesses can grow using social media and client relationships. She hosts "Social Circus" and shares tips on retaining clients and getting referrals. Sarah stresses the importance of moving beyond traditional marketing methods for a successful business.
She offers valuable insights into the challenges of gaining new clients through digital marketing and the potential of nurturing existing client connections. Whether you're a business owner or interested in marketing, this episode provides valuable knowledge to inspire success.
Sarah explores the benefits of focusing on past and current clients instead of relying solely on traditional marketing. As someone deeply involved in digital marketing, she explains that while traditional methods are useful, they often take time to generate results. Sarah suggests prioritizing existing clients and past clients as key sources of business growth. She offers practical advice to improve client engagement and funnel strategies.

EP90 - Leadership Coach Jenny Cole Shares Tips for Navigating Difficult Conversations

In this episode of the Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson sits down with leadership coach Jenny Cole from Positively Beaming to explore the art of navigating difficult conversations in both personal and professional contexts. The episode delves into valuable insights on improving communication skills that are essential for small business owners and corporate leaders alike.
Bringing a wealth of experience from her time as a school principal, Jenny Cole has journeyed through the trials of overwhelm and burnout to reforge her career as an entrepreneur and leadership coach. In her company, Positively Beaming, Jenny focuses her expertise on ensuring that women in leadership roles have the support, skills, and resilience they need to thrive in their positions.
Key Takeaways: Approaching difficult conversations requires understanding one's emotional triggers and learning to respond instead of react. Preparing and rehearsing challenging discussions can help mitigate negative outcomes and maintain professional relationships. Clear and concise communication is key; over-explaining or providing excess detail can undermine the message's effectiveness. Getting closer to those we're in conflict with and humanizing the situation can greatly improve the resolution process. Building a 'win-win' dynamic is possible by articulating needs clearly and working collaboratively towards resolutions.

EP89 - Claudia Neal-Shaw shares tips for building confidence in business.

In this episode of the Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson delves deep into the world of personal branding and self-marketing with the Claudia Neal-Shaw of Candor Consulting. The discussion unlocks the secrets to cultivating a business and personal brand with authenticity and confidence.
The conversation starts with Claudia's journey from a corporate lawyer to the founder of Candor Consulting. With a focus on women entrepreneurs, the dialogue touches on overcoming self-doubt, leveraging unique skill sets, and how to present oneself to the world with confidence. The episode is rich with strategies, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice for anyone looking to amplify their impact in business through personal branding.
Key Takeaways:Establishing a clear personal brand starts with understanding oneself and one’s aspirations within the business.Confidence is not the absence of uncertainty, but it's about taking action despite the fear and doubt.It's vital to recognize one's own worth and the unique skill set one brings to the table, rather than underestimating one’s capabilities.Simple confidence boosters can play a significant role in how we present ourselves online and in person.Sharing one's gifts and specialized skills with the world is not only a personal achievement but also an obligation.
 
claudia@candourconsulting.com
https://www.instagram.com/claudia.nealshaw/
https://www.candourconsulting.com/

EP88 - Demystifying the Launch Process: A Guide to Successful Digital Product Launches

Dive into the exciting world of launching with Sarah Thomson in episode 88 of the Social Circus, where she unpacks the intricate puzzle of digital marketing launches. This episode serves not only as a comprehensive guide but also demystifies the daunting experience of launching a product or service in the digital space. If you've been wrestling with the idea of a launch or find yourself intrigued by the process, keep reading for an episode that promises to empower and enlighten.
Sarah explains the multifaceted stages of the launch process, beginning with the ‘prelaunch’ phase, steering through the core launching event, and smoothly landing into post-launch activities. With an enticing blend of marketing strategies, Sarah advocates for the engagement of one's digital audience and emphasizes the critical nature of staying visible and consistent across platforms. The discussion is ripe with insightful tips, from warming up your audience to harnessing the energy during the launch for optimal results. Read on as Sarah reveals her tried-and-tested methods and offers a golden opportunity to access her "Ultimate Launch Toolkit" as the trajectory towards successful launching is charted.
Key Takeaways:
Launching refers to a systematic online event aiming to get a product or service in front of an audience, inciting engagement and anticipation for purchase.
The prelaunch phase is crucial, often involving waitlist creation or engaging launch events like webinars and social media blitzes to prime the audience.
A launch period of 10-14 days is optimal to maintain momentum and provide adequate time for consumers to make purchasing decisions.
During the launch, an entrepreneur should be highly visible, engage actively with potential consumers, and anticipate a surge of last-minute sales.
Post-launch activities are essential, including soliciting feedback from non-buyers and offering modified versions of the product that could lead to future conversions.
Notable Quotes:
"Launching is typically an online event and involves using all of your digital marketing strategies."
"If you launch, you will always perform better than if you just kind of have your cart open and you just talk about it now and then."
"The launch is the language that we use to say, this is the moment that I'm going to be putting my offer out into the world."
"During the launch period, you are blanketing your social media, you are emailing your list as much as you're comfortable."
"The purpose of a launch event is to get someone warmed up and excited about your offer."
Resources:
Referenced in the discussion is Sarah Thomson's "Ultimate Launch Toolkit," which is available at a reduced price of $97, down from the usual $297. 
Invoke the enthusiasm and strategy behind successful digital launches by giving the full episode a listen, and don't forget to explore Sarah Thomson's "Ultimate Launch Toolkit" for a step-up in your launch game. 
Stay tuned for more of Sarah's empowering and expertise-laden discussions on the Social Circus.
 
Ultimate Launch Toolkit

EP87 - Setting Goals and Boundaries for a Successful Year in Business

Welcome to the Social Circus podcast, where host Sarah Thomson embarks on a journey to explore the pivotal aspects of social media, business mindset, and the intricacies of entrepreneurship. Dive deep into the heart of goal setting and strategic planning, as Sarah unveils her reflections on the past year and maps out her objectives for 2024. If you're an entrepreneur seeking guidance on translating your vision into tangible results or simply curious about maintaining a work-life balance, this episode is tailored for you.
Sarah Thomson starts the year with a positive outlook, emphasizing the critical nature of goal setting for business growth. Throughout the episode, Sarah shares her deliberate approach to setting achievable financial goals, dissecting revenue streams, and constructing a systematic plan to propel her business forward. The second segment of the podcast offers valuable insights into setting boundaries, structuring non-contact weeks, and managing client expectations to prevent burnout and prioritize personal well-being.
Key Takeaways:
Setting concrete goals is essential for directing your business toward success and ensuring accountability for growth.
It's important to review previous years' accomplishments and use them as a foundation for setting realistic expectations.
Time management and boundary setting are vital for balancing professional commitments with personal well-being.
Time blocking, including designated CEO days and flex days, can greatly enhance productivity and prevent burnout.
Integrating personal milestones and important events into your business calendar ensures you remain present for life's significant moments while running a successful business.
Notable Quotes:
"You must, must know where you are going. Otherwise, anywhere is good."
"We have to honor ourselves and our energy and remind ourselves, why did we start our business and come back to that as your north star?"

EP86 - Challenges and Lessons of 2023 in Business

In this episode, Sarah Thomson reflects on the year 2023 and shares her experiences and lessons learned. She discusses the challenges she faced, such as losing a six-figure government contract and the impact it had on her business revenue. Despite these setbacks, Sarah was able to grow her business by 6% through hard work and determination.
Sarah also talks about the importance of setting boundaries with clients and learning to say no to requests that don't align with her business goals. She shares her experiences of saying yes to things she had no business doing and the lessons she learned from those situations.
Additionally, Sarah discusses the value of networking and connecting with other entrepreneurs. She shares her decision to run co-working days and the benefits she gained from them. She also emphasizes the importance of reviewing and evaluating your business regularly to identify areas for improvement and growth.
Key Takeaways:
Set boundaries with clients and prioritize self-care.
Say no to requests that don't align with your business goals.
Focus on networking and connecting with other entrepreneurs.
Regularly review and evaluate your business to identify areas for improvement.

EP85 - Goal Setting and Planning for a Successful Business in 2024

In the final episode of The Social Circus for 2023, host Sarah Thomson discusses the importance of goal setting and planning for small businesses. She emphasizes the need for realistic goals and encourages listeners to review their financials from the past year to inform their goal setting for the upcoming year. Sarah also highlights the significance of understanding the numbers in your business and suggests seeking the help of professionals like bookkeepers and accountants. She advises listeners to assess their current capacity and set goals that are achievable and aligned with their energy levels. 
Key Takeaways:
Set realistic goals based on a review of your financials from the past year.
Understand the numbers in your business and seek the help of professionals if needed.
Assess your current capacity and set goals that align with your energy levels.
Take time off during the Christmas period to rest and recharge.

EP84 - Laura McRae - Managing and Launching a Podcast

 
Summary:
In this episode of The Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson interviews Laura McRae, a podcast manager, about the process of launching and managing a podcast. Laura explains that many people find podcasting overwhelming and don't know where to start. As a podcast manager, Laura helps her clients with all the technical aspects of podcasting, including setting up hosting platforms, editing episodes, and creating social media content. 
With a background as a virtual assistant, Laura decided to niche down her business and focus on podcast management after taking two podcast management courses. She offers a range of services, including setting up hosting platforms, editing episodes, writing show notes, and creating social media content. Laura's goal is to take care of all the technical aspects of podcasting so that her clients can focus on creating great content.
Key Takeaways:
Niche down your podcast to target a specific audience and make it more searchable.
Choose a podcast name that includes a keyword for better searchability.
Consider the length of your episodes based on your target audience's preferences.
Weekly episodes are recommended for better momentum and consistency.
Outsourcing podcast management can save time and ensure a smooth process.
 
podcastsupportservices.com.au
laura@podcastsupportservices.com.au
Instagram (@podcast.support.services)
 
Podcast Support Services
 
 https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurajmcrae/

EP83 - Get Festive - Creating Engaging Christmas Content on Social Media

In this episode of The Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson shares tips and ideas for creating engaging Christmas content on social media. She emphasizes the importance of making social media fun and simple for both the business owner and the audience. Sarah suggests starting with a post that informs the audience about the business's Christmas plans and availability. She also encourages businesses to take a break during the holiday season and set clear expectations for when they will respond to messages.Sarah recommends creating a Christmas video or photo to wish the audience a Merry Christmas and thank them for their support. She suggests adding some Christmas fun to the branding, such as festive elements in the logo or cover image. For product-based businesses, Sarah advises checking the website and setting up commerce tags on Facebook and Instagram to facilitate easy purchasing.For businesses that don't sell products during Christmas, Sarah suggests supporting other small businesses by giving them shoutouts on social media. She also introduces the concept of user-generated content (UGC) and encourages businesses to engage their audience by asking them to share photos or participate in fun activities and games.

EP82 - Louise Percy

In this episode of The Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson welcomes back etiquette coach Louise Percy to discuss tips for hosting and attending Christmas parties and networking events. Louise emphasizes the importance of sending invitations well in advance and using electronic RSVPs to track attendance. As a host, it is crucial to greet guests at the entrance and introduce them to others. For guests, self-introductions and confident networking are key. Louise also advises on navigating sensitive topics and managing alcohol consumption at work functions.
 
Louise Percy is the founder of the Percy Institute of International Protocol and an expert in etiquette and elegance. With a background in military, political, and diplomatic work, Louise has been running the Percy Institute since 1992, offering courses and coaching on social and business etiquette. She is known for her expertise in networking and has recently launched a podcast called "Manners and Other Matters: Exploring Etiquette and Elegance."
 
Here’s how you can connect with Louise:
https://thepercyinstitute.com
Facebook - The Percy Institute
Instagram.
Linkedin
Manners and Other Matters Podcast
 
Key Takeaways:
Send invitations in advance and use electronic RSVPs to track attendance.
Greet guests at the entrance and introduce them to others as a host.
Be prepared to do self-introductions and confidently network as a guest.
Take cues from the host regarding alcohol consumption at work functions.
Practice respect, consideration, and kindness when traveling and in confined environments.

EP81 - Emily Fogg and Sally Newman -Capability Network

This week Sarah is joined by Sally Newman and Emily Fogg who are the co-founders of Capability Network, an organization that aims to support small businesses and individuals with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions. 
 
About The Guest(s):
Sally Newman: Sally is a former corporate professional who transitioned into the celebrancy industry after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. She is now the CEO of First Line Productions, a theater and film production company that aims to share people's stories through art. Sally is also a co-founder of Capability Network, an organization that supports small businesses and individuals with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions.
Emily Fogg: Emily is a former teacher with 14 years of experience in special needs and mainstream education. She is the founder of Wise Out of Tuition, a tutoring business that specializes in helping neurodiverse children reach their potential in English and math. Emily is also a co-founder of Capability Network, where she provides mentoring and support to individuals with disabilities who are starting or growing their own businesses.
Key Takeaways:
Capability Network aims to provide recognition and support for small businesses and individuals with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions.
The awards night organized by Capability Network has received nearly 250 nominations, highlighting the need for recognition in this space.
Small businesses should consider working with individuals with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions, as they can bring unique skills and perspectives to the team.
Inclusivity in small businesses can be achieved through simple changes, such as providing sensory boxes, offering relaxed sessions, and making marketing materials more accessible.
Capability Network plans to offer networking sessions and online support groups to help small business owners become more inclusive and learn from individuals with disabilities or neurodivergent conditions.

EP80 - Sarah McLeod - Boosting Confidence Through Style

Summary:
Sarah McLeod, a personal stylist, joins Sarah Thomson on The Social Circus to discuss confidence, styling, and showing up as your best self.
Sarah shares her journey into styling and how she helps women find their confidence through clothes. She emphasizes the importance of starting with what clients already have in their wardrobe and helping them understand their personal style. Sarah also addresses common misconceptions about personal styling and offers advice for women who struggle with confidence and want to show up as their best selves.
 
About The Guest(s):Sarah McLeod is a personal stylist and the founder of SJM Styling. With a background in marketing, Sarah followed her passion for helping others feel confident and stylish by becoming a personal stylist. She believes in bringing sparkle, joy, and magic to her clients' lives through clothes.
 
https://www.instagram.com/sjmstyling/
 
https://www.facebook.com/sjmstyling

EP 79 - Selling and Promoting During Turbulent Times

In this episode, Sarah discusses how small business owners can navigate running their businesses during times of uncertainty and unrest. She emphasizes the importance of being true and authentic to oneself and honoring one's feelings. Sarah also addresses the challenge of discussing contentious political issues and advises business owners to approach these topics with compassion, kindness, and love. She highlights the need to maintain sales, promotions, and offers during turbulent times to create financial freedom, influence, and the ability to give back. Sarah encourages business owners to use their financial success to support causes they are passionate about and to bridge the gender gap in entrepreneurship.
Key Takeaways:
Honor your feelings and be authentic in how you navigate running your business during uncertain times.
Approach contentious political issues with compassion, kindness, and love to avoid isolating your audience.
Financial success creates influence and the ability to give back to causes you care about.
Maintaining sales and promotions during turbulent times helps bridge the gender gap in entrepreneurship.