In this episode, I'm diving deep into an essential question for aspiring entrepreneurs: What should your membership program actually include? Inspired by questions from dedicated listener and Startup Society member Cheryl Kosner, I'm providing valuable insights for those considering launching or enhancing their own membership offerings.
I start with my own journey of creating a successful membership program, discussing the struggle that comes with deciding how much content is necessary before launching, as well as the importance of validating ideas through market research and initially adopting a minimalist approach, which goes hand-in-hand with structuring content to keep members engaged without overwhelming them. We all want to avoid a tiresome content treadmill!
I highlight various phases of my membership's growth, beginning with the launch in 2018. I explain how I navigated various changes to create a sustainable program that grows alongside its members.
If you're curious about how to manage content creation without burning out, you'll learn my key strategies that have allowed me to maintain quality without the constant need to produce new materials each week. I stress the importance of solid training that members can access at their own pace and show how a membership's value doesn't solely rely on the frequency of new content. Instead, sustaining engagement through community interaction and live events holds significant value, ensuring members find ongoing reasons to remain subscribed.
This episode will provide you with practical insights like:
- Effective strategies for launching a membership program tailored to member needs
- Key decisions surrounding content creation and ongoing development
- Tips for balancing content production with member engagement to avoid burnout
- Ways to create lasting value in a membership beyond just new tutorials or courses
If you're considering starting or improving your own membership program, tune in for a candid conversation that paves the way for you to build a thriving community and financial independence without sacrificing your freedom.
Chapters:
0:00: What should your membership actually include?
1:31: The Freedom of Entrepreneurship
5:19: Phases of Content Development
10:01: Shifting to Guest Experts
13:03: Creating Sustainable Membership Models
18:59: Listener Questions and Wrap-Up
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
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In this episode, I talk with Shay Brown, co-founder of Bucket List Bombshells, about building a multi-seven-figure business while embracing a four-day workweek. Shay shares insights on achieving professional success without the hustle and how her business has empowered over 10,000 women globally through efficient business practices.
Key highlights include:
This episode is filled with practical advice for entrepreneurs seeking balance and success. Tune in for inspiration and actionable strategies to fuel your business's growth!
FREEBIE! SHAY'S DREAM CLIENT PLAYBOOK: https://bucketlistbombshells.com/worklessearnmore
Shay's Website: https://bucketlistbombshells.com
Shay's Instagram: https://instagram.com/bucketlistbombshells
Shay's Programs: https://bucketlistbombshells.com/programs
Register now for your FREE ticket to Start-Scale-Succeed 2025:
https://gillianperkins.com/sss-register
Chapters:
0:02: Growing Your Business with Less Time
1:28: Freedom and Balance in Entrepreneurship
2:14: Shea Brown's Journey to Success
4:06: Balancing Roles in a Business Partnership
7:01: Effective Client Coaching Strategies
9:17: Marketing Strategies for Online Businesses
17:56; Nurturing Leads After Initial Contact
23:27: Expanding Audience Beyond Workshops
26:49: Understanding Product Offerings and Sales
29:32: Revenue Streams and Financial Insights
31:07: The Origin Story of Bucket List Bombshells
39:17: Adapting to Changes in the Online Space
39:46: Connecting with Shay Brown Online
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
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In this episode, I'm joined by success coach Gabe Cox to talk about the upcoming Start-Scale-Succeed virtual conference, scheduled for October 21-23, 2025. Designed for entrepreneurs aiming to break the $100,000 revenue milestone, the conference promises actionable strategies for a sustainable work-life balance.
Gabe shares insights into the diverse agenda featuring 18 expert speakers focused on the critical stages of business: starting, scaling, and succeeding. Each day is dedicated to specific themes—foundational skills for beginners, advanced scaling techniques, and mindset strategies for success.
Key highlights include:
- A hybrid format allowing live interaction and on-demand access
- Networking events and Q&A panels to foster community engagement
- An option to upgrade to a Scale Pass for exclusive content and ongoing support
We hope you'll join us for this enriching experience designed to empower entrepreneurs!
Register now for your FREE ticket to Start-Scale-Succeed 2025:
https://gillianperkins.com/sss-register
Chapters:
0:03: Introduction to Start, Scale, Succeed
1:43: Conference Details Unveiled
3:07: Conference Dates and Format
4:53: Day One: Getting Started
5:50: Day Two: Scaling Your Business
12:03: Day Three: Succeeding in Business
13:19: Daily Schedule and Kickoff
14:17; Gillian's Talks Overview
20:42: Scale Pass and Live Events
26:32: How to Register for the Conference
28:24: Closing Thoughts and Invitation
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
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In today's episode, I'm tackling a common challenge for aspiring YouTubers: choosing the right channel type. This decision can often feel overwhelming, but I'm breaking it down into four distinct methods tailored to different personalities and thinking styles, empowering you to begin your channel with confidence.
First, we explore the **Intersection Method**, a visual approach using a Venn diagram to find alignment between your passions, skills, and trending topics on YouTube. By combining what you love, what you excel at, and what's popular, you'll uncover channel ideas that are both compelling and marketable.
Next, we examine the **Strategy First Method** for those who thrive on research. This method focuses on identifying popular but underserved niches. You'll analyze existing content to find opportunities that align with your interests, using tools like vidIQ and UberSuggest to gather insightful data for a strong channel foundation.
Then, we discuss the **Backwards Engineered Business Method (BEB Method)**, essential for entrepreneurs using YouTube for marketing. This unique strategy starts with your end goals, guiding you to create content that aligns with your product or service, ensuring sustainable growth.
Lastly, we cover the **Lab Method**, emphasizing experimentation. This approach allows you to test various video ideas while maintaining a consistent posting schedule, helping you identify what resonates best with your audience without committing to one concept too early.
Throughout this episode, I share personal stories and practical steps for each method, encouraging you to overcome analysis paralysis and confidently launch your YouTube journey.
If you're ready to dive in and start your YouTube channel, this episode offers the guidance and tools to make your ideas a reality. Let's explore how you can turn your vision into a thriving video platform!
Chapters:
0:06: Introduction to YouTube Channel Decisions
1:13: The Intersection Method
4:53: The Strategy First Method
10:45: The Backwards Engineered Business Method
14:45: The Lab Method
18:47: Conclusion and Next Steps
Want to learn 3 Secrets to Reach 1,000 Subscribers in Just 3 Months? Check out Creator Fast Track.
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
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In this episode, I chat with Prerna Malik, co-founder of Content Bistro, about the future of email marketing in 2025. We discuss the challenges of inbox saturation and the importance of authenticity in communication as consumer behavior evolves.
Prerna shares key strategies for creating engaging "Nurtured for Sales" newsletters that connect with non-buyers through storytelling, and she explores new approaches to product launches that emphasize consumer preferences.
Key takeaways include:
This episode offers essential insights for both seasoned entrepreneurs and newcomers to enhance their email marketing efforts. Tune in to equip yourself with practical tools for success!
Chapters:
0:04: Introduction to Email Marketing Strategies
4:38: The Impact of AI on Email Marketing
9:35: The Importance of Unique Messaging
15:32: Effective Newsletter Strategies
19:38: Promoting the Start, Scale, Succeed Conference
24:49: Sharing Personal Stories for Connection
31:01: Modern Launch Strategies
41:07: The Content Bistro Rebrand
43:32: Conclusion and Resources for Listeners
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
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In this episode, I'm speaking with Pinterest marketing expert Heather Farris about optimizing Pinterest for your business in 2025. We discuss the impact of AI on the platform and why you need authentic, creator-generated content to stand out from the tidal wave of lazy AI content.
Heather shares vital insights on adapting to Pinterest's algorithm changes, the importance of engaging visuals, and practical strategies for creating high-quality pins. You will learn about effective board optimization, pinning frequency, and how to streamline workflows for success.
Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting, this episode offers essential tools to enhance your Pinterest presence and drive sales.
Key takeaways include:
- The importance of authentic content in the age of AI
- Navigating Pinterest's algorithm updates
- Effective pinning strategies and board optimization tips
Tune in for actionable advice to boost your Pinterest marketing efforts!
Chapters:
0:15: Introduction to Pinterest
1:50: The AI Impact on Pinterest
2:56: Navigating AI Content Challenges
6:37: Pinterest Algorithm Updates
11:06: Effective Pinterest Strategies
19:49: Repurposing Content for Pinterest
23:27: The Start, Scale, Succeed Virtual Conference
26:41: B2B and Informational Content on Pinterest
38:04: Simplifying Your Pinterest Workflow
39:24: Tools and Resources for Pinterest Marketing
41:46: Services Offered by Heather Farris
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
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In this episode, I'm sharing my journey of building a successful online business while raising my (now SIX) children! I'm disclosing the effective strategies that have allowed me to thrive as both a mother and an entrepreneur.
Let's dive into my business model, struggles, lessons learned, and how I have managed transitions along the way. I'll also tell you the tech and tools that have supported our business and allowed us to grow.
Balancing work with family life requires setting firm boundaries and delegating tasks to others effectively. There is also a lot of value in proving a concept before scaling it up and in avoiding other (potentially costly) missteps, like a few I'll share with you here!
I want to provide you the key practical insights you need for launching and growing your own online business while putting family first.
Tune in to hear:
If you're eager to grow your online business without compromising family time, this episode is a must-listen!
Chapters:
0:00: Introduction to My Journey
1:56: Understanding My Business Model
8:29: My First Customers
12:23: Scaling My Business
18:38: Tools and Software I Use
26:42: Balancing Business and Motherhood
30:34: Mistakes to Avoid
34:35: Closing Thoughts and Next Steps
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
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When you’re just getting started with your business, it can be so tempting to spend time on all the “fun” things like designing the perfect logo, building a fancy website, or posting every day on social media. But here’s the thing: those tasks don’t actually move the needle when it comes to making money.
In this episode, I’m sharing the common mistakes I see new entrepreneurs make that end up wasting precious time and slowing down their progress. I’ll explain which activities you can safely postpone, like forming an LLC, creating complicated sales funnels, or investing in expensive software, and why focusing on them too soon can actually hold you back.
Instead, I’ll show you what to prioritize right now: your product, your target audience, and your sales process. These are the core essentials that will help you start earning sooner and give you the momentum to grow.
If you’re in the early stages of building your business, this episode will help you cut through the noise, stop spinning your wheels, and zero in on what actually matters most.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
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If you’re running an online business, you already know how important it is to have systems that actually work—not just ones that look good on paper. But turning audience attention into revenue? That can feel a lot trickier.
In this episode, I’m joined by business strategist Jordan Gill, the founder of Systems Saved Me. Jordan and I dig into the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make with sales conversions, why keeping your systems simple is often the smartest move, and creative ways you can personalize and position your offers to stand out.
We also talk about how tools like ChatGPT can make content repurposing a whole lot easier, and why focusing on fewer platforms might just be the fastest way to see bigger results. If you’re selling digital products or growing an online business, this conversation is packed with practical strategies to help you streamline, sell more, and avoid burnout.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
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Choosing the right legal structure for your business can feel… overwhelming. Sole proprietorship, LLC, S corp, C corp… what do all these terms even mean? And more importantly, how do you know which one is right for YOU?
When I was first starting out, I had so many questions about business structures. I didn’t want to mess up something that could affect my taxes, my liability, and my long-term growth. And I know I’m not the only entrepreneur who’s felt that way.
That’s why in today’s episode of Work Less, Earn More, I’m breaking down the four most common business structures and walking you through the pros and cons of each. I’ll share what I’ve personally learned from navigating these transitions myself, give you tips for when it makes sense to switch from one structure to another, and explain why it’s so important to get professional advice from an accountant or attorney.
If you’ve ever felt confused about what’s best for your business—or you just want to be sure you’re set up in the smartest way possible—this episode will clear things up.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
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In this episode, I’m joined by leadership strategist and operations expert Jillian Dolberry to talk about how you can build a reliable system for making smarter decisions in your business.
We dive into why reactive management can hold you back, how to make sure your choices align with your core values, and the daily habits that keep operations running smoothly. Jillian also shares practical tips for delegating, documenting processes, and avoiding the operator trap, that all-too-common mistake of trying to do everything yourself.
If you’ve been wanting to streamline your operations, empower your team, and free up more of your time to focus on growth, this conversation is full of actionable insights you can start putting into practice today.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
Work with Gillian Perkins:
Ever feel like there’s just too much to do and not enough time to do it all? In this episode, I’m sharing the exact weekly planning process I use to keep my business running, homeschool my kids, and still have time to breathe.
I’ll walk you through how I prioritize what actually matters, set boundaries that protect my time, and build in flexibility so my week doesn’t feel overwhelming. I’ll also let you in on a little secret: sometimes procrastinating on purpose is the smartest move you can make.
If you’re looking for a simpler, more strategic way to plan your week, this episode is for you.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
Work with Gillian Perkins:
Ready to try Melio for yourself? You can get started with no monthly fees using their Melio Go plan, or upgrade for advanced features like batch payments, approval workflows, and W9/1099 tax tools. https://go.melio.com/gillian2025
In this episode, I’m talking about how AI is reshaping content creation, for better or for worse. While it’s easier than ever to churn out low-quality work, there’s also huge potential to create better content faster with the right strategies. I’ll share three smart ways to use AI to level up your content: coming up with ideas, repurposing across platforms, and polishing your drafts. I’ll also give you a bonus tip on automating your workflow, plus introduce a tool called Lio that makes managing contractor payments simple and flexible.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
Work with Gillian Perkins:
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Dave Heath, founder of Human Focus AI, for a conversation about how entrepreneurs can use AI to run their businesses more efficiently. Dr. Heath shares why now is the time to start integrating AI, comparing it to the early days of the internet, and how adopting it early can give you a major advantage. We dive into practical ways to use tools like ChatGPT for content creation, quality control, and streamlining daily operations. He also explains how to build custom AI assistants tailored to your unique business needs and how to avoid some common mistakes. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear roadmap for using AI to save time, boost productivity, and stay focused on what matters most.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
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In this episode, I’m sharing a challenge that nearly every aspiring entrepreneur faces at some point: how do you choose the right product to create and sell?
I’m walking you through the five-step framework I use to help my students make this decision strategically so they can confidently create a product that sells, even if they have a small audience or feel uncertain about their expertise. Whether you’re thinking about creating a course, a digital product, or something else, I’ll show you how to identify opportunities, filter your ideas using my Four Ps method (Problem, Person, Proven, Personal Fit), and validate your concept through real customer interactions and pre-sales.
I’m also sharing a practical example from one of my students, Jane Calms, who successfully launched her first course by following these exact steps.
If you’ve ever struggled with indecision, self-doubt, or simply having too many ideas, this episode will give you the clarity and direction you need to move forward.
Use this scoring spreadsheet to decide WHICH of your product ideas to pursue: https://gillianperkins.com/choose-what-product
Listen to the full episode to hear:
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In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and fellow entrepreneur, Tara Wagner. Tara is an accredited small business consultant who has been through a lot in recent years, navigating chronic health challenges and long COVID while still running a successful business.
We had a really honest conversation about what it looks like to build a sustainable, profitable business when life throws you curveballs and how social media, specifically Instagram, can either help or hurt in that process. Tara shared how she’s learned to treat her Instagram profile more like a digital business card: simple, strategic, and supportive of her overall business goals (without requiring hours of her time every week).
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or uninspired by social media, I think you’ll find this conversation refreshing and encouraging.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
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AI has changed the game, making it easier than ever to create more content but also raising the bar for quality. In this episode I talk about what’s working right now, from story-driven videos and long-form interviews to the growing shift toward video and podcasts as preferred content formats.
We’ll dive into why building trust and creating personal connections is more important than ever and how “fast track funnels” can help speed up the buyer journey. I’m also breaking down why free “lite” versions of your offers can increase conversions and why user-generated content still plays a powerful role in today’s marketing landscape.
Whether you're just getting started or looking to optimize your marketing strategy, this episode will help you stay ahead of the curve and reach your audience more effectively.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
Work with Gillian Perkins:
In this episode, I'm excited to share a conversation I had with Gabe Cox during the Grow Your Business Without Social Media Online Conference. We talked all about how to grow your business with content marketing in a way that’s both strategic and sustainable.
I shared why YouTube is my favorite platform for long-form content and how I use it to attract leads and build trust with my audience. We also got into how I repurpose content across different platforms, plan videos more efficiently, batch-produce content, and even turn content creation into a revenue stream.
If you're looking to grow your business without being glued to your phone or computer all day, this episode will give you the tools and strategies to do just that.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
Work with Gillian Perkins:
In today's episode, I’m diving into a topic that every entrepreneur needs to understand: how to protect your business legally without spending a fortune. I may not be a lawyer, but after years of building and running multiple businesses, I’ve learned a lot about the legal steps small business owners need to take to stay protected and profitable.
I’m sharing what I’ve learned about choosing the right business structure, using solid contracts and client agreements, creating essential website policies, protecting your intellectual property, and knowing when (and what kind of) business insurance makes sense. I’ll also introduce you to Small Business Legal 101, a practical and affordable course taught by licensed attorney Sam Vander Wielen, available inside Startup Society.
Whether you’re just getting started or have been in business for a while, this episode will help you understand the key legal protections your business needs and how to get them in place without breaking the bank.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
Work with Gillian Perkins:
As I get ready for the arrival of baby number six, I’ve been deep in preparation mode, not just at home but inside my business too. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I’m setting my business up to run smoothly while I step away for maternity leave.
I walk you through the behind-the-scenes projects I’ve been prioritizing, like creating content in advance, planning upcoming launches, and onboarding new team members. I also share how I’m using tools like AI to delegate key responsibilities such as marketing, promotion, and managing partnerships.
One strategy that has been especially helpful during this season is the 12-week year system, which has allowed me to get more done in less time and stay focused on what really matters.
If you’re planning a break from your business or just want to streamline your operations, this episode will give you a practical look at how I’m preparing my company to thrive without me.
Listen to the full episode to hear:
Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.
Have you already started your business, but it isn’t generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!
FREE Resources to Grow Your Online Business:
Work with Gillian Perkins:
