Create a Better Course
Ready to learn what it takes to create a phenomenal and profitable online course? I’m Mara Kucirek - an online course and instructional designer for entrepreneurs and small business owners! Together we’re going to unpack how to grow your passive income through online courses that have a lasting impact on your students too! On this podcast, you’ll find solo episodes filled with actionable advice around launch strategy, marketing online courses and digital products. We’ll also talk about what it takes to start and grow a six-figure business that gives you more freedom and JOY in life! Plus, yo...
Mon, March 11, 2024
040. My First 3 Months Postpartum: The Highs, The Lows, and What I Was NOT Prepared For
Today, I'm sharing the joys and challenges of new motherhood, hoping it resonates with expecting or new moms. I'm spilling it all: from things I thought would be difficult, but were surprisingly easy, to the things I did not expect to be so hard (and that I wish I had prepared for). Episode Highlights: What recovery after an unmedicated birth was like for me My breastfeeding experience What I loved about being a new mom The exhausting reality of new parenthood (and tips for you!) Becoming the default parent Juggling motherhood and business Tips to help you navigate the postpartum phase Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/40 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek
Mon, March 04, 2024
039. I Grew My Affiliate Income by 200% by Following These 5 Simple Strategies
Want to know how I've tripled my affiliate income over the last year without being sleazy, spammy, or scammy? Today, I'm sharing all about how I've started sharing more about the products and tools I am using in my own business, what my affiliate income strategy is, and which programs I'm an affiliate for that make me the most money! Episode Highlights: What's affiliate marketing? Why I was initially resistant to making affiliate income and the mindset hurdle I overcame to start promoting other people's products How you can start building affiliate marketing income (even with a smaller audience) Five strategies that helped me TRIPLE my affiliate income this year (my affiliate income grew 200% last year) The top 5 affiliates that generate the most passive income for my business Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/39 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://marakucirek.com/instagram My Riverside landing page: https://marakucirek.com/ riverside-coupon-code Ubersuggest for keyword research: https://neilpatel.com/ ubersuggest/ Thrivecart: https://marakucirek.com/ thrivecart Flodesk: https://marakucirek.com/ flodesk
Mon, February 26, 2024
038. Want Your Students to See Better Results? This ONE Thing Can Make a Big Difference
Today, I'm sharing a really simple online course creation tip that will make your online course easier for students to take (and will also make people excited to buy your course). This course creation hack is so simple, but it's so effective if you want to help your students to see better results from your course! Episode Highlights: A quick online course creation tip 2 ways you can add THIS element to your online course to help your students see better results The one thing I always do as a student taking an online course! Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/38 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek
Mon, February 19, 2024
037. 5 Journaling Practices For People Who Hate Journaling
Today, we're talking about journaling practices, specifically how to build a practice of journaling when you don't really like journaling. I personally find traditional journaling overwhelming (and a little bit boring!), so if you're like me, I think you're going to love these alternatives! Episode Highlights: 5 Journaling practices I like MORE than writing perfect sentences in a fancy journal Why I continue to make journaling a priority, especially during a hard season What topics I write about most of the time How to keep yourself accountable to journaling, even during busy seasons Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/37 One example of an online journal to try: https://penzu.com/ The Day One App: https://dayoneapp.com/ Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek
Wed, January 31, 2024
036. I Had An Unmedicated Birth On Purpose (This is Why + What it Looked Like)
Today, I'm sharing something different, not about business or online courses, but the unmedicated birth story of my daughter, Hallie. She was exactly 3 months old at the time of recording! Episode Highlights: Why I chose my midwives (and to give birth at a birth center instead of a hospital) What made me decide to try for an unmedicated birth (and skip the epidural) How early labor went (it was not what I expected!) Having a water birth went at my birth center Recovering at home after baby Hallie joined the world! Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/36 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek
Wed, January 24, 2024
035. 5 Ways I'm Making More Money (Profit!) in 2024
I'm sharing EXACTLY how I plan to make more money this year (one of the questions that was MOST common on my end of year survey!). It's something I have spent a lot of time thinking about, especially while I'm in this season of new motherhood (so I don't have all the time in the world). Tune in now to hear the 5 ways I'm focusing on increasing my revenue (and profit) in 2024! Episode Highlights: What I've previously done with client work, and how I'm shifting The not-so-new new offer I'm promoting How I'm adding more passive income streams as a busy mom! What I'm doing to prioritize PROFIT this year What I started to prioritize last year (and how that's going!) Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/35 Tune into Episode #2 to hear Exactly How My Business Makes Money: https://marakucirek.com/2 Tune into Episode #12 for 5 Strategies That Tripled My Affiliate Marketing Income This Year: https://marakucirek.com/12 Tune into Episode #30 for a Complete 2023 Recap to Hear What Worked (and what sucked) Last Year: https://marakucirek.com/30 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek
Wed, January 17, 2024
034. 2024 Online Course Trends That Will Make You More Money This Year (My Top 5!)
In this episode, I’m sharing what I'm seeing emerge as the TOP 2024 online course trends that will make you more money this year (and offer a better experience for your students too!). Episode Highlights: One of the biggest trends I'm seeing (in ALL aspects of the course building and sales process) What my survey results showed me One online course trend that IS an investment... but something you may want to add to your course in the future My personal favorite online course trend (and easy ways to implement it) The biggest reason people are buying courses (and the ONE thing that stops them from adding to cart!) Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/34 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek Take my free quiz to discover the perfect online course software for you: https://marakucirek.com/quiz My favorite online course platforms: https://marakucirek.com/platform-for-online-course/ Tune into Episode 4 next about How to Choose the Best Online Course Creation Platform for Your Business (+ My Top Software Recommendations!): https://marakucirek.com/4
Wed, January 10, 2024
033. My #1 Productivity Hack: Eat the Teddy Bear, Not the Frog
Today, I’m sharing a SUPER simple productivity hack that has helped me stop procrastinating, get more work done, and also find a lot more joy in the work that I'm doing. While you may have heard the term "eat the frog" in the popular Brian Tracy book, the truth is that did NOT work for me (I will explain why), so in this episode, I'm sharing what DID work for me instead! Episode highlights: What it means to "eat the frog" and how it boosts productivity My experience practicing this "hack" and why it didn't work for me Why now I'm choosing to "eat the teddy bear" instead How I'm able to stop procrastinating and get more work done How I've implemented this outside of just my work "to do" list too! Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/33 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek Read Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy: https://amzn.to/47vokPY My favorite planner, The Full Focus Planner: https://marakucirek.com/fullfocus Tune into Episode #27 for 8 Simple Tricks to Overcome Procrastination and Boost Productivity: https://marakucirek.com/27 Tune Into Episode #29 for How to Plan Your Week to Maximize Productivity and Minimize Stress: https://marakucirek.com/29 Tune Into Episode #31 for 8 Steps to Set Effective Goals: https://marakucirek.com/31
Wed, January 03, 2024
032. Want to Know my 2024 Business Goals? Here’s What I’m Working Toward in 2024
In this episode, I’m sharing my EXACT goals list for 2024. Curious what I'm planning and working on for the year? Listen to this episode to hear by 5 KEY goals for next year! Episode Highlights: My top goals for next year The WHY behind how I chose each one What I'm doing to keep my goals top of mind Action steps I'm taking next year to get closer to my goals Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and listen to the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/32 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://marakucirek.com/instagram Read my 2023 Year in Review: https://marakucirek.com/2023-year-in-review/ Learn how to make a 24 in 2024 list: https://gretchenrubin.com/articles/how-to-write-your-23-for-2023-list/ Read all of my Income Reports here: https://marakucirek.com/income
Wed, December 20, 2023
031. 8 Steps to Set Effective 2024 Goals
Who is ready to talk about goal setting? Because this episode is ALL about setting 2024 goals. I'm going to share the exact process I use to set my goals each year (and what I do to prepare for the next year ahead). I love goal setting and (and also consuming content on how others achieve their goals). That’s exactly what I’m exploring today. Over the years, I've followed a similar approach, and that core process is what I’m going to share with you today! Episode Highlights: My favorite goal setting tools (planners, workbooks and more!) When I start planning my annual goals How I prioritize my goals and narrow down the options My KEY questions to help you reflect on the last year and plan for the next year How to create action items for your goals My biggest tip to actually achieving your goals Links Mentioned: Read the blog post and show notes for this episode: https://marakucirek.com/31 Listen to my 2023 Recap: https://marakucirek.com/30 Follow Mara on Instagram: https://marakucirek.com/instagram My favorite planner, The Full Focus Planner: https://marakucirek.com/fullfocus Your Best Year Workbook by Lisa Jacobs: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1329442699/your-best-year-by-lisa-jacobs-the-life Powersheets: https://marakucirek.com/powersheets
Wed, December 13, 2023
030. 2023 Recap: What Worked, What Sucked and My Plans for Next Year
Do you love an honest look behind the scenes? That’s exactly what this year in review is. I'm really excited about today's episode because I'm sharing the highs (and lows) of 2023. I’m sharing what worked well in my life and business, as well as things that did not work. I’m also going to be sharing how much money I made this year, the best investments I made this year, and the WORST investments I made this year. My goal was to have this episode be candid and unscripted, just like friends chatting over coffee. If that’s what you’re into, take a listen! Episode Highlights: How much money I made in 2023 The best things that happened in my life and business this year The challenges I faced this year My best investments and what felt like a waste of money A sneak peek at some of the things I'm planning for 2024! Links Mentioned: Read the full show notes and blog post at https://marakucirek.com/30 Tune into Episode 2 to Hear Exactly How My Business Make Money: https://marakucirek.com/how-my-business-makes-money/ Read my 2022 Year in Review to compare this year vs. last year: https://marakucirek.com/my-year-in-review-2022/ Try out the Template Club Canva Templates: https://marakucirek.com/your-social-team-templates Sign up for Liz Wilcox's Email Marketing Membership: https://marakucirek.com/liz Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/mara
Wed, December 06, 2023
029. How to Plan Your Week to Maximize Productivity and Minimize Stress
Who else loves productivity tips and weekly planning? In this week’s episode, I’m sharing all about how I plan my week (and how you can plan your week) to maximize productivity and efficiency while minimizing stress , because like you, I don't like feeling stressed out and overwhelmed every week! I'm going to walk you through my weekly planning routine (that I do every single week to make sure my week runs smoothly!) to make sure I accomplish as much as possible in the hours I have. Episode Highlights: Exactly how I plan my week each week to maximize productivity My favorite planning tools (planners, calendars and project management tools) Why I don't plan my week on Sunday and what I do instead How I use the Bullet Journal method to stay on top of all of my work The methods my husband and I use to stay on top of chores, parenting and more! Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and read the blog post at https://marakucirek.com/29 Sign up for Asana: https://marakucirek.com/asana Dynalist: https://marakucirek.com/dynalist My favorite planner, the full focus planner: https://marakucirek.com/fullfocus Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marakucirek/
Wed, November 15, 2023
028. 4 of My Most Controversial Opinions About Online Courses
Let’s get a little bit controversial. Over the last 5 years, I’ve worked on over 150 online courses and in that time I’ve learned a lot about what I think works and doesn’t work so today we’re exploring 4 of my most unpopular opinions about the online course world. Episode Highlights: My honest opinions on what makes a good teacher in an online course Why course software doesn't matter nearly as much as you think it does The #1 thing most course creators skip My least favorite way to record lessons Links Mentioned: Read the full show notes and blog post: https://marakucirek.com/28 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marakucirek/ Take my free quiz to uncover the right online course software: https://marakucirek.com/quiz Blog post: How to Choose the Best Online Course Creation Platform for Your Business: https://marakucirek.com/online-course-creation-platform/ Blog post: 5 Big Course Creation Mistakes Holding You Back from Making More Sales: https://marakucirek.com/course-creation-mistakes/
Wed, November 08, 2023
027. 8 Simple Tricks to Overcome Procrastination and Boost Productivity
Confession time: I am a HUGE procrastinator. Most people don’t know this about me, since on the surface it can seem like I have everything figured out in my business, but I’ve battled procrastination for years and worked to find the right strategies that help me overcome procrastination. In this episode I share eight of my biggest hacks to overcome procrastination and be more productive. Episode Highlights Why I sometimes give into procrastination and how it can help How to use your friends as accountability buddies My hack for never starting tasks from scratch How I make work more fun My secret youtube hack for being more productive Links Mentioned Read the full show notes and blog post at: https://marakucirek.com/27 Follow Mara on Instagram: https://marakucirek.com/instagram My favorite planner: https://marakucirek.com/fullfocus My favorite Planner: Full Focus Ambient worlds Youtube channel to help with focus: https://www.youtube.com/@AmbientWorlds
Wed, November 01, 2023
026. How Much Money Can You Make Selling Online Courses?
Online courses and money - if you’re in the online or digital marketing world you may have wondered if it’s truly possible to make money from an online course. Today I’m breaking down how much money course creators earn, the different income levels, and the results you can expect to see when you launch an online course. Episode Highlights: The different types of money course creators make Why income varies and what you should focus on to make more Reasons people sometimes don't make any money with their online course and how to fix it Links Mentioned: Read the full show notes and blog post: https://marakucirek.com/26 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marakucirek/ Listen to episode 4: How to Choose the Best Online Course Creation Software: https://marakucirek.com/online-course-creation-platform/ Listen to episode 23: 5 Reasons No One is Buying Your Online Course Take my free quiz to find your perfect online course software: https://marakucirek.com/course-creation-platform-quiz
Wed, October 25, 2023
025. Six Things That Helped Me Get to Six Figures in Online Business
Making six figures is one of THE big goals everyone wants to hit in online business, and getting there feels pretty dang incredible (though it’s not all sunshine and rainbows all the time)! Today I'm sharing the biggest things that helped me grow and sustain my business at the six-figure mark. Episode Highlights: A full recap of starting my business, how much money I make and how long it took to get to six figures How I got my very first clients Time management strategies that helped me grow my income Turning my business into a referral machine so past clients referred me instead of having to spend a lot of time on marketing Why focusing on your money mindset is KEY to growing a business How to spend less money in your business so you can make MORE Links Mentioned: Read the full blog post and show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/25 Profit First: https://marakucirek.com/profitfirst Blog Post: 5 Time Management Tools that Help Me Find More Time & Energy to Pursue My Goals: https://marakucirek.com/time-management-tools/
Wed, October 18, 2023
024. How to Collect Powerful Customer Testimonials and Case Studies That Help You Sell with Brittany Herzberg
Looking to get more testimonials for your online course? Brittany Herzberg is here to make it easier to gather customer testimonials and turn them into case studies that people love to read. If you've ever wanted to get more testimonials for your products or you're feeling unsure of what to do with the current testimonials that you have this episode is for you! Episode Highlights The differences between testimonials and case studies Simple ways to gather testimonials from your clients Questions you can ask to get great testimonials How to use case studies in your marketing Gathering testimonials for a brand new course Links Mentioned Get the full show notes and read the blog post that goes along with this episode: https://marakucirek.com/24 Visit Brittany's website: https://brittanyherzberg.com/ Follow Brittany on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittany_herzberg/ Download the Profitable Case Study Roadmap: https://brittanyherzberg.com/case-study-roadmap Listen and subscribe to the Smart and Simple SEO podcast: https://brittanyherzberg.com/seo-podcast
Wed, October 11, 2023
023. Sales Down Right Now? 5 Reasons No One is Buying Your Online Course
The economy is super weird right now. I know personally I have been extra stressed out about money and it’s something a lot of business owners are feeling right now too. I’ve had a lot of people ask me if online courses aren’t worth selling right now and if people just aren’t buying right now. The answer is people are STILL buying, but their purchasing habits have changed. If you’re seeing a dip in sales it’s probably time to rethink your strategy and change up some of your offers. This episode is all about how to pivot your strategy and make sure you have an online course or digital product that people actually want to buy! Episode Highlights How customer shopping habits have changed with the economy If it’s worth your time to sell an online course right now (spoiler alert YES!) Common tech issues that keep people from buying How you might be confusing your customers with inconsistent language and long sales pages How to grow your email list and launch to NEW people Why your course might be boring and how to fix it Links Mentioned Get the full show notes and read the blog post that goes along with this episode: https://marakucirek.com/23 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek Listen to "Episode 3: 5 Big Course Creation Mistakes Holding You Back from Making More Sales: https://marakucirek.com/3" Listen to "Episode 21: Mastering the Art of Sales Page Copywriting: Tips and Tricks for Converting Visitors into Customers with Emily Conley" to learn how to write better sales pages: https://marakucirek.com/21
Wed, October 04, 2023
022. An Honest Conversation with My First Business Coach Meg Smidt: Finding Your Lifetime Vision, Getting Unstuck and Growing Your Business
In this episode, I sat down with one of the few people who was there alllll the way at the beginning of my business... Before there even really was a business! Meg Smidt of Your Coach Meg has worked with so many different business owners, moms, and creatives from every industry and niche, and she's here to share some of her wisdom and experience on achieving your goals and creating a strong lifetime vision. Episode Highlights: My coaching experience with Meg How we worked together to set my lifetime vision Practical life goals planning tips from Meg How to find your core values Aligning your life with what matters to you most When it’s time to hire a coach Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes and read the blog post that goes along with this episode: https://marakucirek.com/22 Meg's website: https://www.yourcoachmeg.com/ Follow Meg on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourcoachmeg/ Shop Meg's store "Less Bitter, More Glitter": https://lessbittermoreglitter.shop Check out Meg's "Business as Unusual" Mastermind: https://www.yourcoachmeg.com/business-as-unusual-mastermind-waitlist
Wed, September 27, 2023
021. Mastering the Art of Sales Page Copywriting: Tips and Tricks for Converting Visitors into Customers with Emily Conley
Sales page copy can be one of the most frustrating and overwhelming parts of online course creation. Today I'm chatting with Emily Conley, an incredible copywriter and business friend who knows the ins and outs of writing a sales page that leaves people clicking that "buy" button! Episode Highlights: The biggest mistakes business owners and course creators make on their sales pages Tips for DIY copy Finding your brand voice Brand voice vs. your personal voice Writing a sales page that converts Writing killer headlines How to use and edit testimonials for your sales page Links Mentioned: Get the show notes and the blog post that goes along with this episode: https://marakucirek.com/21 Visit Emily's website: https://emilywriteswell.com/ Connect with Emily on Instagram: https://instagram.com/emilywriteswell Emily's course, The Copy Party: https://emilywriteswell.com/the-copy-party Download one of Emily's free resources: https://emilywriteswell.com/resources
Wed, September 20, 2023
020. How I’m Planning a Profitable and Restful Self-employed Maternity Leave
I’m officially on maternity leave! Don’t worry, I recorded this episode before baby Kucirek officially arrived. Actually, as you read this, she might not be here yet…but I’m already winding things down and taking a step back in my business to make the most of the final weeks before baby arrives. This episode is all about my maternity leave plans and how to plan a maternity leave when you're self employed. Episode Highlights: How I've been prepping for maternity leave the last several months How much time I plan to take off and my returning to work plans How I plan to make money during my time off and how I saved up in advance for my maternity leave How I set expectations with my clients and figured out what I wanted Communicating with clients and making sure all tasks are covered Creating a project plan for my maternity leave and staying on track Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/20 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek Listen to "Episode #13: Surprise! We’re Having a Baby!" to hear more about how we found out we're pregnant and what my pregnancy has been like so far: https://marakucirek.com/13 Listen to "Episode #15: A Week In My Life: A Behind The Scenes Look At Business, Pregnancy, Health and More!" https://marakucirek.com/15
Wed, September 13, 2023
019. Money Making Black Friday Strategy Tips with Nicole Boucher
That’s right, it’s already time to start thinking about Black Friday strategy! For so many business owners Black Friday ends up being a last minute idea and super stressful to plan. This year I want to help you avoid all of the Black Friday stress which is why I asked Nicole Boucher to join us and talk about Black Friday marketing ideas! Nicole is an incredible operations and business manager who runs the behind-the-scenes strategy for multiple online businesses. She’s also an absolute genius when it comes to planning and executing all things Black Friday. Whether you’re already deep in Black Friday planning mode or you haven’t even started thinking about it, this episode is for you! Episode Highlights: When to start planning for Black Friday Sales How long your sale should be What types of products you should offer How much you should discount your products Black Friday trends for 2023 How to avoid burnout and overwork for you and your team during the holidays Links Mentioned: Read the full show notes for this episode at: https://marakucirek.com/19 Visit Nicole’s website: https://nboucher.com/ Follow Nicole on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nboucher214/ Plan your Black Friday with Nicole’s Launch Plan Template: https://shop.nboucher.com/products/launch-project-plan Listen to episode 18: Unveiling the Biggest Black Friday Trends of 2023: Steal These Ideas for Your Own Promotions: https://marakucirek.com/black-friday-trends Download my free Black Friday trends guide: https://marakucirek.com/black-friday-trends-guide
Wed, September 06, 2023
018. Unveiling the Biggest Black Friday Trends of 2023: Steal These Ideas for Your Own Promotions!
Black Friday will be here before you know it, which is why NOW is the perfect time to start planning your Black Friday promotions. Today I’m sharing a roundup of the biggest Black Friday trends we’re seeing this year! Use these trends to plan your own promotions this year and get ahead of the curve. Episode Highlights: How to start planning your 2023 Black Friday sales 5 Black Friday trends to help you inspire your own sales Customer shopping habits this year and ideas to help boost your sales! How to communicate your Black Friday sales plans with customers so they know what to expect Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/18 Download the free Black Friday Trends Guide: https://marakucirek.com/black-friday-trends-guide Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek ManyChat: https://marakucirek.com/manychat Molly Cahill: https://mollycahill.com Elizabeth Goddard and Low Ticket Offers: https://elizabethgoddard.co.uk/ <span style= "font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sa
Wed, August 30, 2023
017. My Biggest Business Mistakes (All of My Regrets and Embarrassing Secrets)
Today I’m getting vulnerable and sharing all of my BIGGEST business mistakes and regrets. These are the things I would have done differently in business, ways I’ve wasted money and the behind-the-scenes details of my biggest self-sabotaging habits. Episode Highlights: The things that were a complete waste of money early on in my business How I self-sabotaged by charging really low prices and having a terrible money mindset My big regrets about growing an email list Passive income mistakes How I let imposter syndrome hold me back Costly tax mistakes and when you should move your company to an LLC Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes for this episode at: https://marakucirek.com/17 Connect with Mara on Instagram
Wed, August 23, 2023
016. 8 Secrets to a Powerful and Profitable Launch Strategy with Carolyn O'Brien
When it comes down to it, the biggest thing everyone wants to get out of a launch is for it to be successful. After all, you decided to put in all that work to create a course or product in the first place because you had something to share with people, and you knew there was an audience who would find it helpful. And, of course, whether you're launching something for the first time or the 20th time, it's pretty dang important that you actually make money during your launch. That's precisely why I invited Carolyn O'Brien to be a guest on Create a Better Course and talk about launch strategy. Episode Highlights: Expanding your launch audience Tracking metrics so you know what's working in a launch Boosting open and click-through rates on email Encouraging people to pay upfront Increasing webinar replay views Launch strategies for money during your whole launch (not just cart open and close) Giving sales a mid-launch push And so much more! Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/16 Carolyn's website: https://www.metricssuccess.com/ Download Carolyn's the free metrics tracking template: https://www.metricssuccess.com/trackingsheet?utm_source=BetterCourse&utm_medium=podcast& Follow Carolyn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynobrienstrategist/
Wed, August 16, 2023
015. A Week in My Life: A Behind the Scenes Look at Business, Pregnancy, Health and More!
Want to take a peek behind the curtains to see what it’s like running a business full-time? This week I’m taking you along and walking you through day by day of exactly what a typical week looks like for me. I personally love listening to behind-the-scenes episodes like this. I think it’s so interesting to hear exactly how other people are spending their time. On this episode you’ll hear me talk about my morning routine, what my client work looks like, some of the goals I’m working on in my business and how I’m currently preparing for maternity leave. Episode Highlights: The new morning routine I’ve implemented and how it’s working for me Working at coffee shops and the library to maximize productivity How I juggle client work with my own business operations The different types of things I do each week for my one-on-one clients Recording guest podcast interviews Planning my week and organizing the tasks I need to get done. Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/14 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek My favorite planner, The Full Focus Planner: https://marakucirek.com/fullfocus
Wed, August 09, 2023
014. Online Courses Vs Memberships: Which One is Right for You?
Online courses vs memberships - are you wondering which one is better? So many people get stuck on figuring out which one is the best option for their needs, so I made an episode to help with that decision! Today, I'm sharing the ins and outs of an online course vs membership site, the pros and cons, and who I think would be an ideal fit for each one. Plus, I talk about some strategies to help you to make the decision (and the first action steps to get you started, no matter which one you choose!) Episode Highlights: The similarities and differences between an online course vs membership site The pros and cons of online courses The pros and cons of membership sites Five questions to ask yourself to find out which one is best for you A low-risk way to try out an online course or membership before committing to long-term My quick quiz that will make your decision a breeze! Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/14 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek Take my free quiz to help you decide if you should create a membership or online course: https://marakucirek.com/courses-vs-memberships-quiz
Wed, August 02, 2023
013. Surprise! We’re Having a Baby! (How We Found Out, Symptoms, Maternity Leave Plans and More!)
It’s true! We’re expecting a baby girl in October and we’re over the moon with excitement and joy! This episode covers all the behind-the-scenes details of pregnancy so far! Episode Highlights: How we first found out we were expecting a baby (and how I told my husband) My BIGGEST fears around having kids and how I’m navigating them Creating a business over the last few years that has given me more space and freedom for family time How we told our friends and family Finding out the gender My symptoms so far Pregnancy Cravings Plans for birth What I’m planning and preparing for maternity leave Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/13 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marakucirek
Wed, July 26, 2023
012. 5 Strategies That Tripled My Affiliate Marketing Income This Year
Do you make income from affiliate marketing in your business? For the first four years of my business, I didn’t - and I regret it! I wish I’d started sooner. Anyone can get started with affiliate marketing income - no matter what stage you are at in your business! In this episode, I’m sharing how I finally got over my big hang-ups around affiliate marketing income and five simple strategies that helped me TRIPLE my affiliate marketing passive income. Episode Highlights: What affiliate marketing is How I worked past my imposter syndrome and started building affiliate marketing income (plus my top tips to get started even if you have a small business) How you can start building affiliate marketing income Five strategies that helped me TRIPLE my affiliate income this year The top 5 affiliates that generate the most passive income for my business Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/12 Connect with Mara on Instagram: https://marakucirek.com/instagram My Riverside landing page: https://marakucirek.com/ riverside-coupon-code Ubersuggest for keyword research: https://neilpatel.com/ ubersuggest/ Thrivecart: https://marakucirek.com/ thrivecart Flodesk: https://marakucirek.com/ flodesk <p dir="ltr" role="present
Wed, July 19, 2023
011. How to Film Your Online Course Videos
So, you’re building an online course, and the time has come to film the videos (cue the dramatic music!) Obviously, if you’re launching an online course, the videos are a huge part of how you’ll connect with students and, well…actually teach them something. So, how do you do it? Episode Highlights: Your options for the recording process (and my top pick on how to get your videos done!) The best tools and software to make the recording process as smooth as possible How to prep for your videos and write your scripts The best ways to create more engaging content so that you're students don't click out of your course How to get over your imposter syndrome and hit the record button Links mentioned in this episode: Take my free course creation software quiz: https://marakucirek.com/quiz My favorite microphone for recording crisp audio: https://marakucirek.com/ microphone Ringlight: https://marakucirek.com/ rightlight Loom: https://marakucirek.com/loom Canva: https://marakucirek.com/canva
Wed, July 12, 2023
010. Pre-launch Secrets with Amanda Warfield: How to Create Buzz, Make $$$ and Get Ready to Sell Your Course!
Pre-launching a course is one of those things that can have a HUGE impact on your success, but so many people skip over it entirely. Amanda Warfield (an incredible content and marketing strategist) is joining me to spill all the secrets on how to create a pre-launch runway and create buzz about your course before launch day! Episode Highlights: Why pre-launching is important The basics of pre-launch runways Each phase of pre-launch and what you should do Amanda’s tips for pre-launching with less stress Segmenting your pre-launch email marketing How to identify your launch VIPs (and how to treat them) Launching to a small audience Live launching tips Amanda’s upcoming book (and how she’s managing writing an ENTIRE book!) Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/10 Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/ podcast Visit Amanda's Website: https://amandawarfield.com/ Listen to the Chasing Simple Podcast: <a href="https://amandawarfield.com/chasing-simple/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl= "https://www.google.com/url?q=https://amandawarfield.com/chasing-simple/&sour
Wed, July 05, 2023
009. Is ThriveCart Learn Right for Your Online Course?
After designing and launching online courses for entrepreneurs for over five years, I've seen it all and used SO many different softwares as new companies pop up and different ones shift to the forefront of the market. Over the past year and a half, I've had a lot of clients switch up their courses to ThriveCart Learn. So, is it right for you, too? Let's unpack all the details on ThriveCart to find out! Episode Highlights: What is ThriveCart? What can you sell on ThriveCart? The basics of ThriveCart Learn Everything that makes ThriveCart Learn a great online course platform Potential downsides to ThriveCart Learn How to decide if ThriveCart is right for you Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/9 Take my free Thrivecart Learn Quiz: https://marakucirek.com/thrivecartquiz Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/podcast Receive the best price on Thrivecart and snag their Lifetime Deal: https://marakucirek.com/thrivecart What is Thrivecart and How it Works: https://marakucirek.com/what-is-thrive-cart/ A deep-dive review of Thrivecart Learn's features: <a href="https://marakucirek.com/thrivecart-learn-review/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl= "https://www.google.com/url?q=https://marakucirek.com/thrivecart-learn-review/&source=gmail&ust=1687106
Wed, June 28, 2023
008. 4 Surprising Ways I’ve Taken More Time Off in My Business This Year and How You Can Too!
Ready to take more time off this year? I'm here to help! I'm sharing practical tips for business owners to plan yearly holidays, vacations, and breaks! Plus some insight on how to make sure you don't accidentally spend your entire vacation working (which I've been guilty of way too many times) Episode Highlights: Four tricks I use to take more time off My time off schedule How I communicate time off with my clients How I hold myself accountable for taking time off Three ways to make sure you don’t end up working on vacation Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/8 Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/ podcast Check out my Collaboration Guidelines (and add these to your website ASAP): https://marakucirek.com/ collaboration-guidelines The planner that I use to plan out each quarter and year: https://marakucirek.com/ fullfocus
Wed, June 21, 2023
007. How Elizabeth McCravy Built a Six-Figure Course and Sold Out Her Beta Launch in 1 HOUR!
In this episode, Elizabeth McCravy chats with us about the beta launch and marketing secrets behind her six-figure course, Booked Out Designer! This is a real and raw peek at what it takes to create, launch and manage a successful and profitable online course. In this episode, we talked about: -How long the course creation process takes and EXACTLY how to finally take action on getting your course done! -Running a successful beta launch and SELLING OUT in 1 hour! -Live launching vs evergreen launch strategies -How to provide an incredible experience for the students inside of your course -And so much more. Seriously, I LOVED recording this episode! Whether you have an established course or you’re just getting started Elizabeth has some great tips to help you start taking action on your goals! Links mentioned in this episode: -Get the full episode show notes at: https://marakucirek.com/7 -Learn more about Elizabeth’s course Booked Out Designer: https://marakucirek.com/bod -Shop Elizabeth’s Showit Templates (use code Mara10 to save 10%): https://marakucirek.com/emshop -Listen to Elizabeth’s podcast The Breakthrough Brand Podcast: https://elizabethmccravy.com/podcast/ -Elizabeth’s podcast episode breaking down her beta launch: https://elizabethmccravy.com/behind-the-scenes-of-beta-course-launch/ -Hear Elizabeth’s tips for combatting course creation overwhelm: <a href= "https://elizabethmccravy.com/combat-online-course-creation-overwhelm/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl= "https://www.google.com/url
Wed, June 14, 2023
006. Steal These 8 Productivity Tips to Work Smarter, Not Harder and Maximize Your Time
Today, we're talking about the nitty-gritty details of productivity and time management. As my business has grown, time has become one of my most valuable resources, and one of the things that has helped me grow my business to where I am today is learning how to manage my time efficiently. I've definitely had my fair share of battling procrastination and distraction (we're all human, right?!) But I've also managed to make some really good habits along the way that help me work smarter and push through those days when I need to get things done (even if I don't feel like working). In this episode of Create a Better Course, I’m sharing eight productivity tips and secrets that helped me become a more efficient business owner. Episode Highlights: My favorite productivity tools that keep me focused, on-task and help make my work more enjoyable The “free space” hack for eliminating procrastination and getting your day started Creative ways to block out distractions Tips for managing your email inbox What I do to save time on meal prep, cooking and grocery shopping How to find your daily priorities and focus on actually getting those things done Why I take very few meetings and how you can cut down on meetings too! Links Mentioned: Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/6 Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/podcast Timer Cube: https://marakucirek.com/timer My Robot Vacuum: https://marakucirek.com/vacuum Hello Fresh: https://marakucirek.com/hellofresh Sanebox: https://marakucirek.com/sanebox Instacart: https://marakucirek.com/instacart <li
Wed, June 07, 2023
005. A Cheat Sheet for Hosting and Selling Online Business Bundles That Lead to Cash, Collaboration and Massive Growth with Dolly Delong
Today, we're talking all about business bundles with Dolly Delong . Dolly is a Nashville-based branding and family milestone photographer and an incredible systems and workflow educator. Dolly also recently hosted a FIVE-FIGURE launch with her bundle, The Systems Workflow and Magic Bundle. Today Dolly is spilling all the details about how to use bundles to grow your business and create powerful collaborations. Episode Highlights: -What is an online business bundle and why you might want to run or participate in one -How to use bundles to grow your income and make long-term friendships -The difference between free and paid bundles (plus the pros and cons of each!) -A behind-the-scenes look at Dolly’s five-figure launch (without running ANY paid ads) -How to contribute to other people’s bundles and be a quality contributor -Creating buzz and excitement about your bundle before it goes live so people purchase as soon as it’s live! -Exactly how long it takes to plan and prepare a bundle (including details on how Dolly planned hers) -The difference between bundles and summits -Upcoming details about Dolly's first summit on email marketing! Links Mentioned: -Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/5 -Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/podcast -Visit Dolly’s website: https://dollydelongphotography.com/ -Follow Dolly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dollydelongeducation/ -Listen to Dolly’s Podcast The Systems & Workflow Magic Podcast: https://dollydelongphotography.com/podcast -Sign up for the waitlist <span class="s7" style=
Wed, May 31, 2023
004. How to Choose the Best Online Course Creation Platform for Your Business (My Top Software Recommendations!)
The number one question I get in my business every single day is, "Which online course creation platform should I use for my course?" In this episode, I’m spilling the details on what you should look for in an online course platform, how to decide the right one for you and three of my favorite options! Episode Highlights: In this episode, I talked about: How to choose the right online course platform for you and your business (spoiler alert: the answer isn't the same for everyone) Why you actually might want to delay making a decision about which online course software to use How to get in the right mindset and recognize there is no one “perfect” software 5 big things to consider when choosing an online course creation platform How to stick to a budget and not go overboard on paying expensive subscription fees My top recommendations for online course platforms and why I like each one Links mentioned: Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/4 Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/podcast Take my Online Course Creation Platform Quiz marakucirek.com/quiz ThriveCart https://marakucirek.com/thrivecart Kajabi https://kajabi.com/ Kartra https://marakucirek.com/kartra My honorable mentions: Teachable https://teachable.com/, Podia</
Wed, May 24, 2023
003. 5 Big Course Creation Mistakes Holding You Back from Making More Sales
Are you guilty of any of these mistakes? After four years of working as an online course creator and strategist (and over a decade of working in one way or another with curriculum and education), I've definitely learned a thing or two about the little things that can make your course successful…and what can hold you back from making more sales. This week on the podcast, we're talking about the five biggest course creation mistakes I see in online business and how to avoid them in your own course. Episode Highlights: How Imposter Syndrome might be holding you back Why most people sabotage themselves with decision paralysis around online course software Overdelivering and overwhelming your students by making your course too long Overcomplicating your first launch (and why it sets you up to fail) The final course creation tasks you might forget that is essential for a great online course! Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/3 Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/podcast Find Your Perfect Course Creation Platform Quiz: https://marakucirek.com/quiz Kartra vs. Kajabi: https://marakucirek.com/kartra-vs-kajabi/ Thrivecart vs. Kajabi: <a href= "https://marakucirek.com/thrivecart-vs-kajabi/" target="_blank" rel
Tue, May 23, 2023
002. Exactly How My Business Makes Money (A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Income Streams and Revenue)
Wanna talk about money? I always love it when other entrepreneurs share the details of how they make money in their business so in this episode I’m getting specific about how much money I made last year, all the ways my business makes money, and my best tips for growing your business income. Episode Highlights: How Much Money I Made Last Year Alllll of my income streams and exactly how much each stream makes up of my total income My future plans for passive income and growth How my income streams have changed and grown over the years Links mentioned in this episode: Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/2 Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/ podcast My Favorite Business Tools: https://marakucirek.com/ favorite-business-tools/ Thrivecart Templates: https://marakucirek.com/ templates Connect with me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ marakucirek/ Cube Timer: <a href= "https://marakucirek.com/cubetimer" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl= "https://www.google.com/url?q=https://marakucirek.com/cubetimer&source=gmail&u
Mon, May 22, 2023
001. My Online Business Story: Quitting My 9 to 5, Earning Six Figures, and Creating More Freedom in My Life
It’s podcast launch day and in this first episode of Create a Better Course I’m sharing my online business story - from stuffy, exhausting corporate jobs to leaving my day job and starting a business in my 20’s. I’m sharing all the details and the winding journey of how my business grew over the years. Episode Highlights: -Being an entrepreneur at heart but feeling like the journey to grow a business that actually created income took a LONG TIME -All of my side hustles over the years -Trying to force myself to fit into the corporate world because I felt like that’s what I should want -Transitioning to becoming a teacher -Starting my online business and what the first few months looked like -Taking the leap and leaving my day job -How I’ve grown my business since Links mentioned in this episode: -Get the full show notes: https://marakucirek.com/1 -Subscribe to receive emails when new podcast episodes are released: https://marakucirek.com/ podcast -5 Things I Did to Finally Go Full-time in My Business: https://marakucirek.com/5- things-i-did-to-finally-go- full-time-in-my-business/
Thu, May 11, 2023
Official Trailer - Welcome and Stay Tuned!
Ready to learn what it takes to create a phenomenal and profitable online course? I’m Mara Kucirek - an online course and instructional designer for entrepreneurs and small business owners! Together we’re going to unpack how to grow your passive income through online courses that have a lasting impact on your students too! On this podcast, you’ll find solo episodes filled with actionable advice around launch strategy, marketing online courses and digital products. We’ll also talk about what it takes to start and grow a six-figure business that gives you more freedom and JOY in life! Plus, you’ll find the occasional guest expert interview to pull back the curtain on what it takes to create and run a thriving online course.
loading...