Don't forget to join the newsletter at webdesignmba.substack.com. We’re looking for our first 50 paid subscribers. If that’s you, you’ll also get: my full Subscription Web Design course transcript—every strategy, step-by-step (if monthly). If you go annual, you get access to my entire Subscription Web Design video course (which itself contains bonus content and downloads) ($197 value) AND my Client Attraction Masterclass ($97 value) for free.
In this episode, I share my personal journey of quitting a secure full-time job during COVID to go all-in on my web design business. I explain why so-called "job security" is often a myth and how running your own business—with multiple clients—can actually offer more stability. I also break down the common mistakes freelancers make when transitioning, and why the subscription model is the future of sustainable web design.
00:00 – Intro & My Leap From Full-Time Job
03:45 – The Myth of Job Security
08:30 – Why a Full-Time Job = One Client
11:50 – Taxes & Compensation Packages Explained
17:10 – Trading One Job for Another
20:40 – Scaling vs. Staying Solo
24:15 – The Power of Subscription Web Design
30:10 – Why Websites Are a Service, Not a Product
36:20 – Moving From Transactional to Relational Clients
40:00 – Why Subscription Revenue Creates Real Freedom
45:00 – Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Don't forget to join the newsletter at webdesignmba.substack.com. We’re looking for our first 50 paid subscribers. If that’s you, you’ll also get: my full Subscription Web Design course transcript—every strategy, step-by-step (if monthly). If you go annual, you get access to my entire Subscription Web Design video course (which itself contains bonus content and downloads) ($197 value) AND my Client Attraction Masterclass ($97 value) for free.
In this episode of the Web Design MBA, we delve into the immense value of building strong relationships and how it impacts your business success. Understanding the concept, 'your network determines your net worth,’ we break down the key elements that make a relationship great using the acronym 'GREAT.' We explore the principles of giving, reciprocity, empathy, attention, and the importance of time. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, this episode aims to help you leverage relationships for long-term business growth. Whether you're watching on YouTube or listening to the audio, it's packed with insightful wisdom that can transform your approach to business and life.
00:00 The Power of Relationships in Business
04:12 The Importance of Adding Value
08:19 Understanding Giving in Business
19:10 The Role of Reciprocity
22:07 Empathy and Communication
23:29 The Significance of Attention
26:16 The Value of Time in Relationships
27:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Don't forget to join the newsletter at webdesignmba.substack.com. We’re looking for our first 50 paid subscribers. If that’s you, you’ll also get: my full Subscription Web Design course transcript—every strategy, step-by-step (if monthly). If you go annual, you get access to my entire Subscription Web Design video course (which itself contains bonus content and downloads) ($197 value) AND my Client Attraction Masterclass ($97 value) for free.
Traditional website pricing is dead. That's a bold claim, but I don't see how you could beat the advantages of Subscription Web Design in any traditional model. Here are my thoughts!
Don't forget to join the newsletter at webdesignmba.substack.com. We’re looking for our first 50 paid subscribers. If that’s you, you’ll also get: my full Subscription Web Design course transcript—every strategy, step-by-step (if monthly). If you go annual, you get access to my entire Subscription Web Design video course (which itself contains bonus content and downloads) ($197 value) AND my Client Attraction Masterclass ($97 value) for free.
In this episode, I’m sharing 10 productivity hacks that have helped me get more done as a web designer, entrepreneur, and agency owner—without burning out. From using automatic time blocking (08:00) to delegating outcomes (13:00), checking email just once per day (19:00), and even listening to soundscapes instead of music to stay focused (03:00)—these are the real-world strategies that work. I’ll also show you how hiring early (11:00), using long-form writing (16:00), and spotting systemization opportunities (20:00) can transform your workflow.
If you want to do more of the right things and less of the wrong ones, this one's for you.
00:00 - Intro & what productivity really means
03:00 - Hack #1: Soundscapes for focus
05:00 - Hack #2: Checklists & SOPs
08:00 - Hack #3: Automatic time blocking with Flow Savvy
11:00 - Hack #4: Hiring early
13:00 - Hack #5: Delegating outcomes, not tasks
16:00 - Hack #6: Long-form writing - meetings
18:00 - Hack #7: Focus modes to block distractions
19:00 - Hack #8: Check email once a day
20:00 - Hack #9: Systemization opportunity awareness
25:00 - Hack #10: Read about productivity
26:00 - Wrap-up & Substack mention
Don't forget to join the newsletter at webdesignmba.substack.com. We’re looking for our first 50 paid subscribers. If that’s you, you’ll also get: my full Subscription Web Design course transcript—every strategy, step-by-step (if monthly). If you go annual, you get access to my entire Subscription Web Design video course (which itself contains bonus content and downloads) ($197 value) AND my Client Attraction Masterclass ($97 value) for free.
In this episode of the Subscription Web Design podcast, we delve into strategies for increasing your web design rates and eliminating the mindset blocks that hold you back. Starting with the importance of mindset, we discuss the concept of limiting beliefs vs. liberating truths and how journaling can help you identify and overcome these barriers. We also explore the significance of financial investment, advising how to handle projects either at full price or for free and highlighting the emotional investment tied to financial commitment. Finally, we offer practical advice on incrementally raising your rates, calculating your costs, and leveraging subscription models to create sustainable income. Tune in for actionable steps to enhance both your mindset and your business profitability.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
02:01 Sponsorship and Course Promotion
02:52 Mindset: The Key to Charging More
04:22 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs
07:24 Value Creation and Market Value
12:17 Financial Investment and Emotional Buy-In
16:24 Practical Strategies for Pricing
23:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Don't forget to join the newsletter at webdesignmba.substack.com. We’re looking for our first 50 paid subscribers. If that’s you, you’ll also get: my full Subscription Web Design course transcript—every strategy, step-by-step (if monthly). If you go annual, you get access to my entire Subscription Web Design video course (which itself contains bonus content and downloads) ($197 value) AND my Client Attraction Masterclass ($97 value) for free.
In this episode of the Web Design MBA Podcast, I’m diving into why content creation is a game-changer for web designers looking to grow their business. I’ll break down the simple 3-step content strategy that can help you get more clients, build trust, and drive monetization. You’ll learn why attention is everything, how to build an email list, and why consistency is key. If you’ve been struggling with getting noticed, this episode is your permission slip to start creating content today!
00:00 - Introduction
02:30 - Why Most Web Designers Struggle with Getting Work
06:00 - The Power of Content Creation
09:15 - Attention, Retention, and Monetization Explained
12:00 - Simple Action Steps You Can Take TODAY
15:30 - How to Build Trust with Your Audience
18:00 - Why Email Marketing Still Rules
20:00 - Final Thoughts & Call to Action
In this episode of the Web Design MBA Podcast, I’m diving into the Spring 2025 edition of my "How I Got My Last Five Clients" series. Instead of focusing on theory, I’m sharing the actual, behind-the-scenes details of how I landed my most recent clients—giving you real insights into the projects, the lessons learned, and how I made these connections. From an unconventional Airbnb-style booking site to a Christian apologetics ministry, I’m sharing how networking, building relationships, and sometimes even making unconventional deals have helped grow my business. Tune in to hear the specifics and grab practical lessons you can apply to your own web design journey.
Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro to the episode and the "How I Got My Last Five Clients" series
03:10 – Client #1: Entertainment media company (metaverse music videos)
10:30 – Client #2: Pool booking business
16:45 – Client #3: AI tool e-commerce project
22:55 – Client #4: Medical training organization
28:00 – Client #5: Christian apologetics ministry
35:00 – Key lessons from these clients and the importance of community in business
In this episode, I break down the 5C's of Attractive Marketing—a framework designed to help web designers and agency owners attract clients instead of chasing them. I share personal experiences, mindset shifts, and practical steps to implement these five key strategies: Create, Consistently, Call to Action, Culture, and Community. If you’re looking to build a predictable client acquisition system, this is for you!
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction & personal journey
[02:00] The problem with unpredictable marketing
[06:00] Mindset limitations holding you back
[15:00] The 5C’s explained
[30:00] Common mistakes & how to avoid them
[35:00] Final thoughts & next steps
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Why do some business owners succeed while others struggle? In this episode, I reveal the mindset shift that can change everything: Activity equals Opportunity. I share personal insights, practical strategies, and actionable tips to help you break through and start seeing real results in your web design business. Plus, I outline three activities that don't generate opportunities—and three that do!
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction & the key question
02:15 - Why "80% done is 100% awesome"
05:40 - The power of massive action in business
08:10 - Activity vs. opportunity: What really works
12:45 - Three time-wasting activities to avoid
16:30 - Three high-impact activities for success
21:00 - A simple system to create opportunities
24:15 - Final thoughts & next steps
🚀 Need help growing your web design business? Book a free coaching call: webdesignmba.com/coaching
In this episode of The Web Design MBA, I dive into the game-changing concept of paid discovery-why you should stop doing it for free and start charging for your time. I break down the biggest mistakes web designers make, how to eliminate tire-kicker clients, and why this simple shift can boost your income. Plus, I share real-world strategies to integrate paid discovery into your sales process. Don’t miss this one!
Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & why discovery matters
01:00 – Why clients always ask, "What does a website cost?"
05:00 – The hidden cost of free discovery
10:00 – How paid discovery filters serious clients
15:00 – Why paid discovery is an easy sale
20:00 – How to implement it in your business today
25:00 – What to charge for paid discovery
27:00 – Final thoughts & free coaching opportunity
🔗 Need help implementing this? Book a free 50-minute coaching call:
webdesignmba.com/coaching
In this episode, I’m diving into the heartbeat process-the simple, yet powerful method that keeps my web design business running smoothly. Whether you're a solo designer or scaling a team, this process has helped me stay organized, keep projects on track, and avoid chaos. I’ll break down how I use it, why it works, and why it’s a game-changer for web designers.
00:00 - Introduction to the Heartbeat Process
02:30 - The struggle: "Where does everything stand?"
04:45 - Why simple project management tools are key
06:10 - The importance of subjective vs. automated updates
08:20 - The Heartbeat Process: A tool to keep you organized
10:50 - How the Heartbeat Process helps solo operators and agencies alike
13:15 - Adapting the Heartbeat Process for weekly check-ins
15:30 - Who should write the Heartbeat? Project Managers or Assistants
17:00 - What goes into a Heartbeat update?
19:25 - The benefits: Staying grounded, managing multiple projects
22:00 - Using Basecamp alongside the Heartbeat for project tracking
25:10 - The “Move the Needle” tool and its role in tracking project status
28:15 - The Hill Chart and Weekly Check-Ins in Basecamp
30:00 - How the Heartbeat Process keeps the business ‘pulsing’
32:10 - Why you should implement this process before scaling
34:50 - Final thoughts: Implementing the Heartbeat to improve your business flow
In this episode of the Web Design MBA podcast, I share an update on my unexpected break and return with insights on dealing with overwhelm and anxiety in your business. After losing my biggest client, I discuss how I bounced back by closing several new deals and taking on coaching clients. I emphasize the importance of sharing true experiences, staying relatable, and not portraying myself as an unattainable guru. The episode dives into handling mental health struggles, the illusion of control, saying no for a season, and the value of having a support system. I also highlight focusing on effective inputs, identifying what's working, and the power of locking in to move forward with determination. If you're dealing with stress or uncertainty in your web design business, this episode offers practical advice and encouragement to help you navigate these challenges.
00:00 Welcome Back to the Web Design MBA Podcast
01:06 Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Success
02:05 The Importance of Honesty and Real Experience
03:14 Dealing with Overwhelm and Anxiety
04:45 Lessons from Russell Brunson
05:57 Personal Struggles and Client Challenges
13:05 Strategies for Managing Anxiety and Overwhelm
16:06 The Year of Saying No
17:51 Building a Support System
20:56 Focusing on What Works
23:45 Locking In and Moving Forward
25:41 Conclusion and Invitation for Coaching
In this very REAL episode of the Web Design MBA podcast, I share some recent challenging news about losing my biggest client, which accounted for a significant portion of my income. I discuss the importance of being real and transparent about the struggles we face as business owners. You'll learn about the risks of having too many eggs in one basket, the necessity of having data to back up your value, and the importance of maintaining strong client relationships, even when contracts end. I'll also provide actionable advice on how to handle such situations and ensure your business's financial stability. Join me as I share lessons from the trenches to help you build and sustain a successful web design business.
00:00 Welcome to the Web Design MBA Podcast
00:29 A Real Episode: Facing Bad News
02:08 Losing the Biggest Client
05:13 Lessons Learned from Losing a Client
10:31 Adapting and Moving Forward
15:20 Practical Advice for Web Designers
25:11 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
In this episode of the Web Design MBA podcast, we dive into the critical issue of ghosting clients. I discuss why it's vital for web designers to maintain communication and professionalism with their clients at all times. You'll learn the negative impacts that ghosting can have on your business reputation and how to handle difficult client situations appropriately. Remember, your success as a web designer hinges on your ability to keep clients happy and engaged. Join me for some real talk on the importance of professionalism and client communication.
00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome
00:37 The Importance of Not Ghosting Clients
02:39 Handling Client Expectations and Pricing Issues
06:03 Professionalism in Client Relationships
07:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the Web Design MBA podcast, we discuss a common problem faced by beginner web designers: establishing a portfolio without prior client work. If you're starting out and find yourself stuck in the portfolio conundrum, this episode provides actionable steps to build a credible portfolio and boost your web design business.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:29 The Portfolio Dilemma for Beginners
03:29 Working for Free: Building Your Initial Portfolio
06:08 Creating Real Fake Sites
10:19 Networking in High Trust Environments
12:31 Honesty and Confidence in Your Skills
13:24 Being Helpful in Facebook Groups
14:58 Pro Tips: Case Studies and Portfolio Insights
17:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of the Web Design MBA podcast, focus specifically on creating an effective onboarding process. We explore how a solid onboarding system can significantly improve client satisfaction, build trust, and streamline the project management process. If you this right, it should lead to more consistent referrals, too!
00:00 Welcome to the Web Design MBA Podcast
00:47 Engaging with Audience Questions
01:28 The Importance of Onboarding in Web Design
01:57 Psychology and Marketing in Onboarding
04:11 Effective Onboarding Tactics
06:56 Creating a Repeatable Process
10:04 Basic Elements of Onboarding
19:17 Practical Steps to Implement Onboarding
21:01 Conclusion and Next Steps
In the first episode of the Web Design MBA Podcast, I introduce the rebranded podcast and talk about what kind of content web designers should create to effectively market their services. Topics include case studies, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and continued success pieces, along with examples and practical advice on how to leverage these content types.
00:00 Welcome to the Web Design MBA Podcast
00:57 Exciting Announcements and New Offerings
01:37 YouTube Housekeeping and Engagement Tips
03:48 Content Creation for Web Designers
10:51 The Power of Case Studies
14:42 Answering Frequently Asked Questions
19:39 Creating Continued Success Pieces
23:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode, I’m back after a short break and wanted to thank you all for being so patient. I’ve got some exciting updates to share, including the rebranding of the podcast from ‘Subscription Web Design’ to ‘Web Design MBA.’ Moving forward, I’ll be diving into topics like subscription models, scaling your agency, and systems management. I’m also working on a new website and brand to match this fresh direction, with a big focus on delivering practical, real-world advice. I’m aiming to fully relaunch by the first Thursday in November!
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back
00:42 Rebranding Announcement
01:08 Focus Areas: Subscriptions, Scaling, and Systems
02:21 New Podcast Name: Web Design MBA
02:52 Current Progress and Future Plans
03:42 Staying Relevant and In the Trenches
05:25 Upcoming Launch and How to Stay Connected
06:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode, we announce significant changes coming to the Subscription Web Design podcast and business. We're transitioning into a reimagined brand called 'the WebMBA' to better help web designers apply business principles to their work. Key updates include shifting from group to one-on-one coaching, introducing a $4.99/month community membership through Basecamp, and expanding our course offerings. Join us as we make these exciting pivots, and prepare for the future of web design with a solid business foundation. Stay tuned for our return after a brief hiatus for rebranding!
00:00 Introduction and Special Announcement
00:17 Reflecting on the Journey So Far
01:01 Reimagining the Podcast and Business
01:48 Expanding Beyond Subscription Web Design
08:07 Introducing the WebMBA
10:56 Changes to Mentorship and Coaching
15:36 Community and Basecamp Access
19:21 Focus on Courses and Future Plans
24:00 Conclusion and Next Steps
Traditional website pricing is dead. That's a bold claim, but I don't see how you could beat the advantages of Subscription Web Design in any traditional model. Here are my thoughts!