Afleveringen

  • Getting started with keyword research, finding the right keyword research tool, and tracking your keywords with Aleka Shunk from Cooking With Keywords.

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    Welcome to episode 495 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, we're rewinding back to one of our favorite episodes with Aleka Shunk from Cooking With Keywords!

    How to Increase Your Organic Traffic with Keyword Research

    Since launching her course, Cooking With Keywords, Aleka has taught countless students about the ins and outs of keyword research, and in this week's podcast episode, she’s sharing her best tips to develop a strong keyword research strategy.

    You’ll learn what keywords and modifiers are, how to get started with keyword research, what tools you should use, and more. Whether you’re just diving into keyword research for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, we know you’ll have so many takeaways from this conversation. Enjoy!

    Three episode takeaways: How keyword research works: Aleka walks listeners through the keyword research process and explains what keywords and modifiers are, what the different phases of keyword research look like, how to get started with keyword research, and more. The keyword research tools Aleka recommends: There are so many different tools on the market for SEO and keyword research, it can feel impossible to choose. Aleka shares her go-to tools for keyword research and the pros/cons of various tools. Why it's important to analyze and track your keywords: The keyword research process doesn't end when you hit 'publish' — it's just beginning! Aleka explains why it is so important to continue analyzing, tracking, and optimizing your keywords in order to see the most benefits from keyword research.

    Resources:

    Cooking With Keywords Get 10% off any Cooking With Keywords course or coaching service (available for FBP members only) Aleka’s Get-Together Keysearch Semrush Ahrefs Keywords Everywhere Keyword Surfer Substack Follow Aleka on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group

    This episode is sponsored by Clariti. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started at foodbloggerpro.com/work-with-us.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Navigating business ownership with family members, establishing ownership of responsibilities, and creating genuine content with Echo and Erica Blickenstaff.

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    Welcome to episode 494 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Echo and Erica Blickenstaff from the food blog Favorite Family Recipes.

    The Secret to Building a Family Business and Reaching 2 Million Pageviews

    In this episode, Echo and Erica dive into the ups and downs of running a family business. The key to their success? Dividing responsibilities and playing to each other’s strengths. After struggling with everyone doing everything (hello, burnout!), they sat down to figure out who would take on what. Once that was sorted, it was like a weight was lifted, and they were able to dive deeper into their areas of expertise.

    They also talk about the challenges of growing a business while staying true to your roots. After taking a hit from Google’s algorithm updates, they realized the importance of diversifying their revenue streams and not relying too much on search traffic. With 2 million monthly page views (!!!) and a focus on authentic, family-driven content, they’ve learned to balance growth with staying genuine. Whether you’re running a family business or just trying to keep things organized, this episode is full of actionable tips and inspiring insights!

    Three episode takeaways: Dividing Responsibilities for Success: Working with family can make decision-making tricky, but once the three sisters divided up their responsibilities based on each person’s strengths and weaknesses, everything fell into place. It helped them work more efficiently and allowed everyone to dive deeper into their areas of expertise. Navigating the Business Roles: Inspired by the E Myth framework, they identified who best fit the roles of the entrepreneur, manager, and technician in their business. Understanding these roles helped them streamline operations and keep the business running smoothly. Adapting and Staying Authentic: After being impacted by Google’s Helpful Content Update, they’ve been focusing on diversifying their revenue streams and staying true to their roots by creating authentic, family-focused content that AI can’t replicate.

    Resources:

    Favorite Family Recipes The E Myth: Why Most Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber Slicing Pie by Mike Moyer The EOS business framework The Minne Stuga Snackdive Clariti Semrush Asana Most Requested Copycat Dishes — their third cookbook! Follow Favorite Family Recipes on Instagram Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Yoast and Memberful. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

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  • Balancing business strategy with your passion, storytelling on social media, and listening to your audience with Kimberly Espinel, author of How To Make Your Food Famous.

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    Welcome to episode 493 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Kimberly Espinel, food photographer and author of How To Make Your Food Famous.

    Creating Viral Food Content on Social Media

    We are excited to welcome Kimberly back to the podcast to discuss her new book, How To Make Your Food Famous, and her strategies for building a successful career as a food creator, especially in today’s ever-evolving social media landscape.

    Kimberly discusses how she made the leap from her job as a social worker specializing in adoption to working for herself as a freelance food photographer, starting with brand partnerships and scaling her business along the way. She emphasizes the importance of listening to your audience — paying attention to what resonates with them and shaping your offerings around their needs — and shares her formula for creating viral food content.

    Episode takeaways: How to balance business strategy while staying true to your passion —Kimberly reflects on how she navigates changes in Instagram’s algorithm and features, focusing on what makes her happiest—whether that’s photography or video — while still seeing growth on her account. Kimberly’s secret formula for creating viral food content — She explains why her strategies are more timeless than they may seem, stressing the power of consistency in content creation. Kimberly also shares the commonalities she has observed among creators who were able to grow their accounts on social media. The common traits among successful creators on social media — Authenticity, vulnerability, personality, and storytelling are all essential for those looking to grow their platforms in the next decade. If you can master one platform, nail your messaging, and build a community, the skills you build will carry you through to the next phase of your business.

    Resources:

    The Little Plantation 314: Creative Food Photography – How Kimberly Espinel Teaches and Inspires Food Photographers How To Make Your Food Famous: A Masterclass in Sharing Your Food Online Korean Vegan Eat Capture Share Podcast Follow Kimberly on Instagram Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Clariti and Yoast. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • The staying power of SEO, experimenting with different SEO tactics, and how to create content that resonates with your audience.

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    Welcome to episode 492 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Stephan Spencer.

    The Art of SEO with Stephan Spencer

    In this episode, Stephan Spencer, author of The Art of SEO, breaks down why SEO is still as important as ever, even with AI changing the search landscape. While AI may shift how we search, SEO remains the backbone of the internet. Stephan encourages listeners to stay focused on their SEO goals, keep investing in strategies that work, and adapt to the evolving world of search.

    You’ll also hear Stephan talk about the power of experimentation. Don’t be afraid to tweak things like title tags and test different tactics—whether it’s a boost or a drop, tracking results is key and tools like Google Search Console, SEMRush, and Ahrefs can help you monitor performance and refine your strategy. Lastly, you’ll learn about the importance of creating content that resonates with your audience—Google rewards authentic, helpful content, so the more personal and valuable your content is, the better it’ll perform in search.

    Three episode takeaways: SEO Still Reigns Supreme: Despite the rise of AI, SEO isn’t going anywhere. AI may change how we search, but SEO has been the backbone of the internet for decades. Keep investing in it, stay focused on your goals, and create your own reality in the world of search. Experiment and Track Results: Don’t be afraid to experiment with SEO tactics (like changing title tags). You may see a boost—or a drop—but you can always course-correct. Stephan also talks about how you can use tools like Google Search Console, Analytics, Ahrefs, or SEMRush to track your results and optimize your strategy. Create Content That Connects: Focus on crafting comprehensive content that meets your audience’s needs and expectations. Personal stories and experiences matter, too! Google’s E-E-A-T metric rewards real, human experiences, so the more authentic and valuable your content, the better it’ll perform.

    Resources:

    Stephan’s website Stephan’s podcast: Marketing Speak Episode 465 of the Marketing Speak podcast: Monetize Your Content with Bjork Ostrom Get Yourself Optimized (Stephan’s new site!) The Art of SEO: Mastering Search Engine Optimization by Stephan Spencer The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Stephen Pressfield Claude Ahrefs SEM Rush Moz SEO Testing SearchPilot HeyGen Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable All Day I Dream About Food The Coffee Chronicler: Ultimate Guide to Aeropress Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Yoast and Member Kitchens. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Mastering recipe development in a competitive market and adapting to AI as a food creator with Raeanne Sarazen, author of The Complete Recipe Writing Guide: Mastering Recipe Development, Writing, Testing, Nutrition Analysis, and Food Styling.

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    Welcome to episode 491 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Raeanne Sarazen.

    Writing Standout Recipes and Navigating AI as a Food Creator

    Raeanne Sarzen wrote the book on recipes
 literally. In 2023, Raeanne published The Complete Recipe Writing Guide: Mastering Recipe Development, Writing, Testing, Nutrition Analysis, and Food Styling. How did she get to be the expert in recipe writing? Raeanne is a Registered Dietitian and a classically trained chef who has worked in hospitals as a clinical dietitian, restaurant kitchens, in food publishing as a writer, editor, and test kitchen professional), and as a culinary nutrition consultant. So yes, she knows a thing or two about developing, writing, testing, and perfecting recipes!

    In this interview, Bjork and Raeanna discuss the recipe development process, how food publishing has changed over the years, what it takes to write a great recipe, and how food creators can stand out online, especially in a world with AI.

    Three episode takeaways: What makes a really good recipe?: Raeanne argues that the quality of the recipe differentiates really successful food creators from the rest of the pack. In this interview, she walks listeners through the recipe development process, shares her tips for writing a user-friendly recipe, and discusses the importance of recipe testing. How to adapt to AI as a food creator: Raeanne shares her thoughts on artificially generated recipes – in short, they’re not tested, devoid of personality, and written without personality or critical thinking. Bjork and Raeanne also discuss how you can use AI when developing recipes and writing content. How to differentiate yourself as a recipe developer: Let’s face it — food blogging is a competitive space. But Raeanne believes that if you create accurate, concise, easy-to-follow recipes that solve the problems of your readers and infuse your content with your distinct voice, you can still build a successful career as a food creator.

    Resources:

    Raeannesarazen.com The Complete Recipe Writing Guide A Couple Cooks Budget Bytes Follow Raeanne on LinkedIn and Instagram Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Memberful. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Cultivating and nurturing relationships, the power of reciprocity, and the role relationships play in growing your business.

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    Welcome to episode 490 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Mo Bunnell from Bunnell Idea Group about his new book, Give to Grow.

    Give to Grow with Mo Bunnell

    In this week’s episode, we’re excited to share Mo's incredible journey from the world of actuaries to the vibrant realm of entrepreneurship. Mo dives deep into how he transitioned from crunching numbers to building a thriving business, discovering that the real magic lies in forging genuine connections. He emphasizes that generosity and relationship-building are key ingredients for success, and you'll definitely want to hear his insights!

    Mo also explores the power of reciprocity in fostering meaningful relationships. He shares practical tips on making clear, trustworthy offers that can open doors to high-value connections, even if you’re starting from scratch. Whether you have a long list of contacts or are just beginning, Mo’s advice on tracking opportunities and nurturing relationships will inspire you to take proactive steps toward collaboration and growth. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to elevate your networking game!

    Three episode takeaways: From Actuary to Entrepreneur: Mo shares his journey from crunching numbers as an actuary to diving headfirst into entrepreneurship. Along the way, he discovered the magic of relationship-building, emphasizing how generosity and genuine connections can lead to success. The Power of Reciprocity: You'll learn how Mo taps into the science of reciprocity to foster meaningful relationships. He stresses the importance of making clear, trustworthy offers to brands and prioritizing high-value connections that can drive your business forward. Cultivating Relationships: Discover Mo’s practical tips for nurturing connections and generating leads—even if you start with no contacts! He encourages listeners to keep track of opportunities and relationships, showing that proactive engagement can exponentially grow trust and collaboration over time.

    Resources:

    Bunnell Idea Group Give to Grow (Mo's newest book!) James Clear’s paper clip strategy Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsor!

    This episode is sponsored by Yoast.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Mastering product development and sales, prioritizing problem-solving for your audience, and overcoming perfectionism with Jillian Leslie from MiloTree.

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    Welcome to episode 489 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Jillian Leslie from The Blogger Genius Podcast and MiloTree.

    Evolving Your Brand: When and How to Sell Products as a Food Creator

    In this week’s podcast episode, Jillian Leslie explains everything you need to know about selling a product as a food creator. Bjork and Jillian discuss the strategy behind developing a product and the importance of leaning into problem-solving for your audience.

    Jillian also walks listeners through how to get started selling products, how to scale products and generate recurring revenue, and how to overcome perfectionism within your business.

    Three episode takeaways: Prioritize problem-solving for your audience — As recipe developers, we’re always looking to solve problems for our readers. Whether you’re developing quick and easy recipes for busy families or vegan recipes for readers hoping to make a lifestyle change, problem-solving is at the center of what we do. Jillian makes the point that the same mentality should apply to developing products to sell and that the more you can market a product as a solution, the more success you’ll have. The importance of testing and iteration — Research, testing, and iteration are essential to growing any business, including developing and selling products. Jillian also explains her theory that creators should start by producing B- work and then refine their product from that point. In this interview, she goes into detail about this theory and talks more about how to prevent perfectionism from holding you back. When to transition into paid content—Many content creators struggle with transitioning from providing free content to putting some content behind a paywall. Bjork and Jillian discuss more about overcoming this barrier and how to know when the time is right for you to create your first product (and how to scale your products).

    Resources:

    The Blogger Genius Podcast MiloTree 095: How Embracing the Mess Propelled a Career with Jillian Tohber Leslie from MiloTree Clariti Catch My Party TJ Therrien Rainbow Plant Life 452: YouTube, Meal Plans, and Business Growth with Nisha Vora The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles Rhodium Network Nixta Follow Jillian on Instagram Email Jillian Book a free call with Jillian Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group

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    This episode is sponsored by Clariti. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Prioritizing your blog, freeing yourself from metrics, and building a digital cookbook with Brian Watson from Thee Burger Dude.

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    Welcome to episode 488 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Brian Watson from Thee Burger Dude.

    Differentiating Your Content in a Crowded Market with Brian Watson

    In this week's episode, Brian Watson from Thee Burger Dude shares his inspiring journey from posting on Instagram to building a successful blog on WordPress. He'll reveal his secrets to standing out in a crowded digital landscape — including tips on simplifying your content creation process, focusing on versatile recipes, and the power of blogging and why it remains a vital tool for content creators.

    Plus, he'll debunk the myth of chasing numbers and encourage you to be gentle to yourself to prioritize your mental well-being. Whether you're a seasoned blogger or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you grow your audience and build a sustainable online business!

    Three episode takeaways: Brian's Content Creation Journey: You'll hear about how Brian got his start on Instagram and eventually made the leap to YouTube. He dives into the early days of his content creation and how he built a successful blog on WordPress after initially trying out Wix, emphasizing the flexibility WordPress offers for monetization. Discover the Power of Blogging: He highlights why blogging remains a crucial part of his success, serving as his main source of income, while platforms like Instagram serve as more of a bonus. He encourages content creators on TikTok and Instagram to consider starting their own blogs for a more stable and personalized space that they fully control. Making Your Content Stand Out: You'll hear Brian talk about how to differentiate your brand in a crowded space, including tips on simplifying photography setups and focusing on multifunctional recipes that can be used across various dishes. Plus, he offers valuable advice for new bloggers: don’t get caught up in the numbers and embrace a mindset that prioritizes mental well-being and self-compassion!

    Resources:

    Thee Burger Dude Tiffy Cooks: How I Transitioned from 9–5 to FT Food Blogger Episode 392 of The Food Blogger Pro podcast: How Pinch of Yum’s 1.1 Million Follower Instagram Account Got Hacked (and Recovered!) Joe’s Vegan Food Gram Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Inner Creative Battles by Steven Pressfield Follow Brian on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Yoast and Memberful. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Creating a brand to withstand algorithm changes, going beyond branding basics, and how your brand can influence your business strategy.

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    Welcome to episode 487 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Katie Trant from Foodie Brand Lab and Hey Nutrition Lady.

    Actionable Steps to Shape a Successful Brand

    There has been a lot of buzz around the importance of building a strong brand as a food creator. Amidst the volatility of search algorithms and the rise of AI, food bloggers are looking for a way to stand out and build a loyal following.

    Enter, Katie Trant! She has a Masters in Nutrition and started her own food site, Hey Nutrition Lady, back in 2010. She also works full-time at brand and business consultancies helping big companies define their brand. So you might say she was well-positioned to start Foodie Brand Lab to help food bloggers (like you!) refine their brand strategy.

    In this interview, Bjork and Katie discuss everything you need to know about brand: what it is, why it matters, how to define your brand, and how it can influence your business strategy. Katie also provides actionable steps to start building a stronger brand to help you stand out in the crowded space of food blogging.

    3 episode takeaways: What is a brand? A brand is much more than a logo, color scheme, design, or font. It includes such things as brand personality, tone of voice, brand position, brand purpose, and brand values. Your niche is part of your brand, but your brand has the potential to be even more impactful in your success than a niche. A strong brand can withstand algorithm changes: It has never been more important to have a brand as a food blogger. Katie discusses how to shape the perception of your brand, and why brand matters so much in the current digital landscape. Actionable steps to go from search traffic to direct traffic: Katie walks listeners through several thought exercises (like whether you have a traditional or personal brand) and concrete steps that they can take to start building a better brand.

    Resources:

    Foodie Brand Lab Hey Nutrition Lady Pinch of Yum Magnolia Kate Spade 424: The Future of Content Creation (and Protection) in a World of AI with Paul Bannister from Raptive 467: Pinterest Strategy in 2024 Q&A with Kate Ahl Dave Ramsey 1000 True Fans Pinch of Yum Easy Sesame Noodles Smitten Kitchen Butter Noodles CultivateWP Inquiring Chef Follow Katie on Instagram and Facebook Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Tailor Brands. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Working with brands, communicating with clients, and staying organized with Chris Pieta from Creative Biz Launch.

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    Welcome to episode 486 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Chris Pieta from Creative Biz Launch.

    Building Brand Relationships that Last with Chris Pieta

    In this week’s episode, Chris highlights the value of narrowing your focus. By clearly defining what you offer and identifying your ideal client, you can transform your outreach efforts. When you zero in on how to help them achieve their goals, your messaging becomes much more impactful!

    Chris will also talk about the power of personal connections (consider hopping on a call instead of just firing off emails)—it’s all about building relationships! Plus, he'll share how using a CRM can streamline your processes and keep your emails from landing in spam. With a solid onboarding system, you’ll make the transition smooth for new clients. Be sure to tune in for these tips to supercharge your business!

    Three episode takeaways:

    Narrow Down Your Niche: Chris emphasizes the importance of knowing exactly what you’re selling, your ideal client, and how you can help them achieve their dream outcome. This will help you tailor your outreach and messaging to resonate with the right people!

    Reach Out Strategically and Nurture Relationships: When it comes to working with brands, you’ll want to lean on the power of clear communication and strategic outreach. Hop on a call with a client rather than exchanging emails—this personal touch can help you better understand your client’s needs and pave the way for a successful collaboration. You’ll also learn how you can use cold outreach to connect with potential clients and the different phases of a discovery call.

    Streamline Your Process with Systems: A CRM can be a game-changer for managing leads, tracking interactions, and automating tasks. Chris also emphasizes the importance of setting up proper email infrastructure to prevent your emails from going to spam and creating a clear onboarding process to ensure a smooth transition for new clients!

    Resources:

    Creative Biz Launch The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss Gary Vaynerchuk Folk CRM Notion GoHighLevel Close Dan Martell Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Food Blogger Pro Course: Google WorkSpace Alex Hormozi’s YouTube channel Follow and/or DM Chris on Instagram, YouTube, and for photo and video work, check out Pieta Productions Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Clariti and Raptive. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Prioritizing passive income, overcoming burnout, and rediscovering joy as a food blogger with Elizabeth Emery from Vancouver with Love.

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    Welcome to episode 485 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Elizabeth Emery from Vancouver with Love.

    Achieving Quiet Success as a Six-Figure Food Creator

    Food blogging can be a dream job — hey, we wouldn’t have started Food Blogger Pro if we didn’t believe that! But it also requires a lot of hustle, perseverance, and uncertainty. Elizabeth Emery first started Vancouver with Love in 2015 as a side hustle and took her site full-time in 2018. By 2021, she was feeling completely burnt out. That year ended up being a pivotal moment in her career.

    To overcome her burnout, she met with a business coach and adjusted the parts of her business that she wasn’t happy with. Once she made significant changes to her business and income streams, she rediscovered the joy of content creation, and her business started growing along with these changes. Elizabeth is now making a six-figure income from her business, and she shares all the details about her journey in this great interview!

    Three Episode takeaways: How to overcome burnout: Between working on her blog for 6+ years, the pandemic, and unreliable income, Elizabeth found herself completely burned out running her food blog. She was desperate for a change but knew that she could still love her job with a few tweaks. In this interview, she explains the process of working with a business coach to find more joy and flexibility in her career. Why ‘quiet success’ is underrated: Elizabeth has 30,000 followers on Instagram, no book deal (yet!), and isn’t on TV. And you don’t need any of those things to build a career as a successful food creator! It isn’t the right time for Elizabeth to pursue those goals, and she shares more about why those metrics of success aren’t for everyone. How to prioritize passive income: Elizabeth has been very intentional in the growth of her business and in adjusting her sources of revenue to increase her passive income. In this episode, you’ll learn how she makes a six-figure income from her business between ad revenue, sponsored content, and freelance recipe development.

    Resources:

    Vancouver with Love Pinch of Yum Meal Plans Full Focus Jen Carrington Your Simple & Spacious Business Letters From a Hopeful Creative Designing Your New Work Life Mediavine KeySearch Raptive Tastemaker Conference Zillow Yoast Alex Hormozi You Can Making Millions with 5000 Followers? Follow Elizabeth on Instagram Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Tailor Brands and Yoast. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Balancing passion, building a sustainable business, and predicting the future of food blogging with Alex and Sonja Overhiser from A Couple Cooks.

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    Welcome to episode 484 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Alex and Sonja Overhiser from A Couple Cooks.

    The Importance of Building Community with A Couple Cooks

    Alex and Sonja first started blogging at A Couple Cooks over 14 years ago and have navigated countless changes in the food blogging landscape over the years. In this interview, they share the things that kept them going before they achieved success with their business and the importance of having an accountability partner in the early days.

    They also discuss more about key decisions they’ve made in their business: why they’ve chosen not to build a team, why they don’t prioritize Instagram, and how they pivoted their cookbook strategy after initial rejections. Bjork, Alex, and Sonja have been friends for over a decade, and it’s a pleasure to hear them catching up as people who have been around the block in this industry.

    Episode takeaways: Balancing passion and business: Alex and Sonja have learned a lot in the 14 years that they’ve been running A Couple Cooks, including the delicate balance between their passion for sharing recipes with their community and the reality that their site is also their livelihood. In this interview, they share more about how they run a successful business while still making space for creativity and joy. Developing a giftable cookbook: Alex and Sonja are publishing their second cookbook, A Couple Cooks: 100 Recipes to Cook Together, this fall, but it wasn’t a linear path to getting this cookbook published. After their first cookbook proposal was rejected by publishers, they went back to the drawing board and developed a new proposal for a “giftable cookbook” that was accepted by the first editor they approached! Having the ability to pivot: With the growth of AI and the uncertainty of Google algorithm updates, it is more important than ever to build an experience and community as a creator. Alex and Sonja discuss this shift, including why they’re focusing more on email marketing, as well as their predictions for the content creation landscape over the next year.

    Resources:

    A Couple Cooks 178: Life, Podcasting, Blogging, and Cookbook Writing with Sonja and Alex Overhiser Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell Ten Thousand Hours by Macklemore 365: How to Find Your Zone of Genius and Hire the Right People with Emily Perron Independence by Design A Couple Cooks | Pretty Simple Cooking: 100 Delicious Vegetarian Recipes to Make You Fall in Love with Real Food A Couple Cooks: 100 Recipes to Cook Together The Art of Cookbook Publishing with Danielle Walker Vegetarian Ventures Chronicle Books Bard Press Raptive Dotdash meredith ConvertKit Pinch of Yum This Week in Startups Golden Hour Books for a signed copy of their new cookbook Follow A Couple Cooks on Instagram and YouTube Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Member Kitchens and Raptive. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Legitimizing the creator economy and working with brands with Chandice Probst and Abbey Rodriguez from Tastemaker Conference

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    Welcome to episode 483 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Chandice Probst and Abbey Rodriguez from Tastemaker Conference.

    How to Thrive in the Creator Economy and Build Successful Brand Partnerships

    Chandice and Abbey have been on the front lines of the food content creation revolution, watching the industry evolve from bloggers to influencers and creators. Now, they’re dedicated to proving that being a food creator is a serious business, not just a hobby.

    Tune in as they discuss the power of community and how embracing an abundance mindset can open doors to new opportunities. You won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation that could transform the way you approach your creative business!

    Three episode takeaways:

    Legitimizing the Creator Economy: Chandice and Abbey argue that being a [food] creator is a real business, not just a hobby. They’ve seen the food blogging industry evolve over the years and are working hard to decentralize the food creator business model.

    Building Your Brand Takes Work: Getting brand partnerships isn’t as easy as it might seem. It requires a strategic approach, including creating a sponsorship deck, reaching out to brands directly, and even leveraging AI to find potential partners!

    Collaboration Over Competition: The key to success in the creator economy is often collaboration. Abbey and Chandice emphasize the importance of building a supportive community and leaning into the abundance mentality over the scarcity mentality.

    Resources:

    Tastemaker Conference | FBP members get $100 off with code FBP100 through this link from October 15th - October 22nd. Tastemaker sponsorship referral program Tastemaker affiliate program Tastemaker Collaborative FYPM (rates brand partnership deals) Tastemaker brand pricing calculator Tastemaker brand education webinars Federal Trade Commission Announces Final Rule Banning Fake Reviews and Testimonials Follow Tastemaker on Instagram Email Chandice at [email protected] Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Yoast and Tailor Brands. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Building community, providing exclusive value, and streamlining membership sites with Jen Matichuk from Memberful.

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    Welcome to episode 482 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Jen Matichuk from Memberful—this is the third and final episode of our Memberful mini-series!

    How to Build a Thriving Membership Site

    In this week’s episode of our podcast, we’re diving deep into the power of community for your membership site! Join Jen as she shares her insights on how to foster genuine connections with your audience and ensure they feel valued and engaged.

    Discover how to deliver exclusive content that truly resonates—think behind-the-scenes access and in-depth tutorials that keep your members coming back for more. Plus, Jen highlights some of Memberful’s essential tools that can streamline your site management and allow you to focus on building meaningful relationships with your audience. You won’t want to miss this episode!

    Three episode takeaways: Build a Community Around Your Content: A strong community can be a powerful asset for your membership site. Encourage engagement, provide exclusive content, and create a space where your members can connect with each other. Offer Value Beyond Your Free Content: To justify the cost of a membership, provide exclusive content and benefits that your free audience can’t access. This could include behind-the-scenes content, in-depth tutorials, or access to a private community. Use the Right Tools to Streamline Your Membership Site: Tools like Memberful can help you manage your membership site, from creating tiers to facilitating payments. By using the right tools, you can save time and focus on building your community.

    Resources:

    Memberful Rhett and Link Mythical Society The Perfect Loaf community Wistia JWPlayer Jacques PĂ©pin Foundation The Bittman Project Workweek Lunch Little Spoon Farm (ad-free experience!) Molly Baz Connect with Jen via email email Follow Jen on Instagram Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsor!

    This episode is sponsored by Memberful. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Leveraging email lists, boosting revenue, and building relationships with Nathan Barry.

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    Welcome to episode 481 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Nathan Barry from ConvertKit, soon-to-be Kit.

    Maximizing the Impact of Your Email List

    Nathan Barry started ConvertKit back in 2013 and has grown his company into a multi-million dollar business with over 30,000 creators that use the platform. We are happy to welcome Nathan back to the podcast to chat about how he has grown his business, email marketing strategy, and the transition from ConvertKit to Kit.

    As algorithms change and search traffic becomes increasingly unpredictable, it’s a great time to double down on your email list. Capturing your audience from both site traffic and your social accounts and building an ongoing relationship with that audience is a great way to diversify your income streams and protect the future of your business. This podcast episode dives into the importance of optimizing your emails for the reader, consistency, and driving revenue with your emails.

    Three episode takeaways: Strategies for Increasing Email List Sign-ups: When something goes viral on social media, how do you make sure you’re capturing that audience? Nathan and Bjork discuss the importance of optimizing links in your social media profiles, lead magnets, and other tips for growing your email list. How Your Email List Can Increase Your Revenue: With the (slow) demise of third-party cookies, creators need to be more
 creative with providing more relevant ads to their readers. If you’re working with an ad network, your email list can be an incredibly valuable resource for serving targeted ads to your users (thereby maximizing your ad revenue). The Magic of Flywheels: Nathan explains how and why to apply the concept of flywheels, which emphasizes attracting, engaging, and delighting your community, to your business. He also makes a case for why you should focus on repeating what is working for your business (rather than chasing the next new thing).

    Resources:

    ConvertKit NathanBarry.com Follow Nathan on X Raptive The Elliott Homestead The Flexible Dieting Lifestyle Bonnie Christine Jenna Kutcher’s Instagram post Mediavine Clariti Kit Kit Studios Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group

    This episode is sponsored by Member Kitchens and Raptive. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started at foodbloggerpro.com/work-with-us.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • The power of recurring revenue and breaking down key metrics for running a membership site with Bjork Ostrom

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    Welcome to episode 480 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week, we’re excited to air the second episode of our mini-series with Memberful, in which Bjork discusses the ins and outs of membership sites and the power of recurring revenue.

    The Secret to Generating Recurring Revenue with Bjork Ostrom

    Tired of chasing after millions of followers? In this week’s podcast, Bjork spills the beans on how you can build a thriving business with just a small but dedicated community. He discusses the power of recurring revenue and how that can translate into stability for your business. He also breaks down some key business metrics that can help you track your progress and make smart decisions.

    Let’s face it: Building a sustainable business isn’t about getting everyone on board. It’s about finding your tribe and serving them really well. This episode is a must-listen if you’re looking to grow your business in a more sustainable way!

    Three episode takeaways:

    You Don’t Need Millions of Followers: It’s a common misconception that you need millions of followers or subscribers to build a successful and profitable business. The reality is that even a small, dedicated community can be enough! By focusing on quality over quantity and building strong relationships with your audience, you can create a sustainable income stream that allows you to thrive.

    Recurring Revenue is Key to Stability: One of the biggest advantages of membership sites is the predictable income they generate through subscription fees. This recurring revenue provides a stable foundation for your business, allowing you to focus on growth and improvement without constantly chasing new opportunities. Unlike one-time sales or advertising revenue, which can fluctuate, membership fees offer a reliable source of income.

    Understand Your Business Metrics: To make informed decisions and evaluate the health of your business, it’s essential to track key metrics such as MRR (Monthly Recurring Revenue), churn rate, customer lifetime value, and customer acquisition cost. These metrics can help you understand your business’s performance, identify areas for improvement, and make strategic decisions.

    Resources:

    Memberful Episode 45 of the Food Blogger Pro podcast: How to Use Facebook Ads to Reach the Right People with Tony Rulli from IntentionalSpark.com QuietLight Episode 32 of the Food Blogger Pro podcast: Buying & Selling Websites with Mark Daoust from Quiet Light Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsor!

    This episode is sponsored by Memberful. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Publishing a cookbook, fostering a community, and creating a work-life balance with Danielle Walker

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    Welcome to episode 479 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Danielle Walker.

    The Art of Cookbook Publishing with Danielle Walker

    Danielle’s journey to becoming a cookbook author is anything but ordinary! From a chance encounter with a publisher to releasing her seventh (!!!) cookbook, “Make It Easy,” she’s learned so many valuable lessons along the way that have propelled her into the successful cookbook author she is today.

    In this episode, Danielle shares her insights on building a strong community, understanding your audience, and prioritizing mental health and work-life balance. You’ll discover how these strategies have helped her create successful cookbooks and maintain a fulfilling career. For aspiring cookbook authors and anyone looking to build a successful online community, this episode is for you!

    In this episode, you’ll learn: The unconventional path to cookbook publishing: Early on in her journey, Danielle had a publisher reach out to her to work on a cookbook, and this unexpected opportunity led her to the world of cookbook writing. She’s learned so much along the way and shares some valuable lessons from her early experiences in this episode — from the necessity of advance payments to the importance of hiring an agent. The importance of building a community: Danielle used Kajabi and Substack to connect more deeply with her audience and gather valuable feedback for her cookbook. By fostering a sense of community, she was able to better understand her readers’ needs and preferences and shape the content she created for them. Prioritizing mental health and work-life balance: Danielle discusses how important it was for her to take a step back to reevaluate her work to ensure she brought value to her community and have a better relationship with her work. You’ll learn about how she’s been able to find a healthy balance between her professional and personal life — no easy feat!

    Resources:

    Danielle Walker’s website Against All Grain Episode 443 of the Food Blogger Pro podcast: Why David Lebovitz Switched from Blogging to Substack Danielle’s latest cookbook, Make It Easy 1,000 True Fans by Kevin Kelly Meals Made Simple by Danielle Walker (her first cookbook!) Episode 191 of The Food Blogger Pro podcast: Building a Better Bio with Ryan Walker Follow Danielle on Instagram and Substack Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Yoast and Raptive. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Income diversification, monetization strategies, and memberships with Bjork Ostrom

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    Welcome to episode 478 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week, we’re launching the first episode of our three-episode mini-series with Memberful, in which our very own Bjork Ostrom talks about the power of community, income diversification, and memberships.

    How to Address This Common Food Blogging Mistake

    Let's face it: most food bloggers are stuck in a rut when it comes to making money. They're relying on one source of income (usually ads), and that's a bit of a risky game. If Google or Pinterest decides to change their algorithms, your traffic and income could take a nosedive.

    So, what's the solution? Diversification! Instead of squeezing the same old orange, look for other juicy options. Affiliate marketing and sponsored content can be great ways to boost your income, but if you're looking to bring in recurring income, you may want to consider membership sites. They let you build on what you're already good at: creating awesome content and connecting with your audience. We hope you enjoy this episode — be sure to tune in to the second part of the mini-series next week!

    In this episode, you’ll learn: Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Relying solely on ad revenue can be risky, especially if your traffic sources change. Diversify your income streams. Explore options like affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and memberships to create a more stable business. Build a strong business foundation. Focus on creating valuable content, engaging with your audience, and building relationships to support sustainable income.

    Resources:

    Memberful 1,000 True Fans by Kevin Kelly Ewen Finser’s newsletter: Niche Media Publishing Food Blogger Pro Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group Thank you to our sponsor!

    This episode is sponsored by Memberful. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Diversifying your traffic sources, the power of community, and using Reddit as a growth hack with Ewen Finser

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    Welcome to episode 477 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Ewen Finser from Venture 4th Media.

    Leveraging Reddit as a Traffic Source

    In this episode, Bjork sits down with Ewen Finser to discuss the evolving landscape of digital content creation. With algorithm changes impacting traffic, Ewen emphasizes the importance of diversifying your audience reach beyond Google. He shares insights on building a strong presence on platforms like Reddit, while also highlighting the power of community-building as a cornerstone for long-term success.

    Ewen also delves into the art of platform-specific content creation. He explains how understanding and catering to the unique preferences of each platform is essential for maximizing your impact. Get ready to gain valuable insights into expanding your online reach and building a sustainable digital business!

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Diversify Your Traffic: With algorithm updates and the rise of platforms like TikTok and Instagram, it’s time to start looking for an alternative recipe for your traffic. Building a strong presence on other platforms can be a game-changer as you find new ways to reach your audience and ensure your content is where they are.

    The Power of Community: The real key to success is building a loyal community and providing them with information that will actually help them. Platforms like Reddit (which Google is starting to treat as a publisher!) offer a unique opportunity to connect with your audience on a deeper level. By providing value, being authentic, and engaging with your community, you can create a sustainable business that’s less reliant on Google’s ever-changing rules.

    Master the Art of Platform-Specific Content: Every platform is different. What works on Instagram won’t necessarily work on Reddit so in order to succeed, you’ll need to tailor your content to each platform. It’s about understanding your audience and giving them what they want, where they want it. By mastering this, you can maximize your reach and impact.

    Resources:

    Venture 4th Media Reddit Leverage Course Niche Media Publishing Follow Ewen on X and LinkedIn Join the Food Blogger Pro Podcast Facebook Group

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    This episode is sponsored by Yoast and Member Kitchens. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.

  • Creating effective category pages, navigating keyword research, and balancing SEO with creativity with Casey Markee from Media Wyse.

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    Welcome to episode 476 of The Food Blogger Pro Podcast! This week on the podcast, Bjork interviews Casey Markee from Media Wyse.

    Advanced SEO Q&A with Casey Markee

    This is the third and final episode of our Summer Membership Spotlight, in which we have been sharing a piece of content that is normally exclusive to Food Blogger Pro members here on the podcast.

    We are finishing the series with a replay of our Advanced SEO Live Q&A with Casey Markee! Food Blogger Pro members submitted many questions all about SEO — Helpful Content Updates, SEO best practices, topic clusters, AI, and more!

    We hope you learn a lot from this Q&A (we always do!) and that you enjoyed this special series on the podcast.

    In this episode, you'll learn about: SEO Survival Guide: Get the latest scoop on Google's cookie changes and how to optimize your content for search engines, even after the Helpful Content Update. You'll hear more about keyword research tools and strategies that will help you rank higher. Recipe Creation and SEO Balance: Learn how to create delicious recipes that will both satisfy your cravings and rank well in search results. Casey will discuss building strong topic clusters and how you can leverage recipe roundups to boost your SEO. Leveraging AI for SEO: Discover ChatGPT's potential for SEO and how to use it effectively to improve your content strategy.

    Get the resources for this episode at foodbloggerpro.com/476.

    Thank you to our sponsors!

    This episode is sponsored by Clariti and Raptive. Learn more about our sponsors at foodbloggerpro.com/sponsors.

    Interested in working with us too? Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how to get started here.

    If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions for interviews, be sure to email them to [email protected].

    Learn more about joining the Food Blogger Pro community at foodbloggerpro.com/membership.