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Podcast Show Notes: How to Turn a $17 Offer Into a 6-Figure Funnel (Ch 20. Build Your Audience)

For more resources and to get the “Your Message Matters” book series, visit platformgrowthbooks.com.

Episode Summary:
Host Jonathan Milligan reveals the secrets behind building a 6-figure funnel using low-ticket offers and Facebook sales campaigns. Learn why patience, strategy, and the right mindset are essential for turning small sales into big profits—and how to avoid the most common mistakes that sabotage paid traffic campaigns.

Key Topics Covered:

• The story of Coca-Cola’s first ad and the timeless power of smart advertising.
• Why most people fail with Facebook ads: unrealistic expectations, impatience, and pulling campaigns too soon.
• The importance of treating ad spend as an investment and focusing on breaking even to build a customer base.

The Paid Traffic Sales Campaign Playbook:

1. Set Realistic Goals:
   Aim to break even at first, giving Facebook’s algorithm time to learn and optimize.
2. Master Retargeting:
   Install the Facebook pixel, create custom audiences, and follow up with interested prospects using targeted ads.
3. Embrace Low-Dollar Front-End Offers:
   Create a high-value, low-cost product ($7–$17) to attract new customers and build trust.
4. Get Savvy with Strategic Upsells:
   Offer relevant, value-adding upsells after the initial purchase to increase revenue.
5. Monitor and Optimize:
   Track key metrics, test different ad elements, and refine your campaigns for better results.

Action Step:
Write your first sales ad:

• Define your low-ticket offer and its benefits.
• Identify your target audience.
• Craft a catchy headline and list key features.
• Create urgency and a clear call to action.
• Write concise ad copy and plan visuals.
• Test different variations for best results.

Key Takeaways:

• Patience pays: focus on breaking even and building your customer base while the algorithm learns.
• Use retargeting, low-dollar offers, and upsells to acquire customers profitably.
• Consistent monitoring and optimization are essential for long-term success.

Connect:
For more resources and to get the “Your Message Matters” book series, visit platformgrowthbooks.com.

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Podcast Show Notes: Facebook Ads Don't Work… Unless You Do This (Ch 19. Build Your Audience)

For more resources and to get the “Your Message Matters” book series, visit platformgrowthbooks.com.

Episode Summary:
Host Jonathan Milligan dives into the “Paid Traffic Playbook” and reveals how to use Facebook lead campaigns to grow your email list—without falling into the common traps that waste money. Learn the mindset, strategy, and step-by-step process for turning paid ads into a long-term investment in your business growth.

Key Topics Covered:

• The story of Founder magazine’s explosive list growth and course launch using Facebook ads.
• Why most people fail with paid ads: lack of strategy, unrealistic expectations, and focusing on quick sales instead of building relationships.
• The importance of treating paid advertising as an investment in future revenue, not just an expense.

The Paid Traffic Playbook:

1. Set Your Budget:
   Decide how much you can invest in ads, thinking long-term rather than expecting instant results.
2. Define Your Target Cost Per Lead:
   Research industry benchmarks and set realistic goals for your campaign.
3. Craft Your Lead Magnet:
   Create a valuable, relevant free offer that addresses your audience’s pain points.
4. Design Your Landing Page:
   Keep it simple and focused on capturing email addresses with a clear call to action.
5. Set Up Your Facebook Ad Campaign:
   Use the conversions objective, start with your warm audience, and test your ad copy and images.
6. Monitor and Optimize:
   Track key metrics, A/B test different elements, and refine your campaign for better results.
7. Nurture Your Leads:
   Develop an email sequence to build relationships and introduce your paid offerings.

Action Step:
Write your first lead campaign ad:

• Define your free offer and ideal audience.
• Craft a punchy headline and compelling ad copy.
• Choose an eye-catching image.
• Set your daily budget and plan your landing page.

Key Takeaways:

• Approach Facebook lead campaigns as a long-term investment in building your list, not a quick sales tactic.
• Set a budget, create valuable lead magnets, and nurture your leads for maximum ROI.
• Consistent measurement and optimization are essential for success.

Connect:
For more resources and to get the “Your Message Matters” book series, visit platformgrowthbooks.com.

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Podcast Show Notes: Want More Subscribers Fast? Steal This Email Swap Formula (Ch 18. Build Your Audience)

For more resources and to get the “Your Message Matters” book series, visit platformgrowthbooks.com.

Episode Summary:
Host Jonathan Milligan reveals the “Guest Email Traffic Playbook”—a proven strategy for rapidly growing your email list by leveraging other people’s audiences. Learn how to ethically and effectively use email swaps and guest webinars to accelerate your subscriber growth, build credibility, and create win-win partnerships.

Key Topics Covered:

• The inspiring story of Joseph Nicoletti, who grew his list to 25,000 subscribers using partner traffic.
• Why partnerships are the “rocket fuel” for audience growth and instant credibility.
• The difference between slow solo growth and the fast track of leveraging partner audiences.

The Guest Email Traffic Playbook:

1. The Email Swap Strategy:
   • Develop an irresistible lead magnet (checklist, guide, template, etc.).
   • Write 1-3 “swipe” emails for partners to send to their list, making it easy for them to promote you.
   • Find partners with similar-sized lists and propose a mutual email promotion.
   • Build ongoing relationships for repeated swaps and future collaborations.
2. The Guest Teacher Strategy:
   • Create a compelling webinar or presentation that delivers real value.
   • Write promotional emails for partners to send to their audience.
   • Reach out to influencers in your niche and propose a guest teaching partnership.
   • Personalize your outreach and highlight the mutual benefits.
3. Execute and Optimize:
   • Track your results, gather feedback, and refine your approach.
   • Keep delivering value and building relationships for sustainable growth.

Action Step:
Kickstart your email swap strategy:

• Brainstorm 5-7 lead magnet ideas and choose the best one.
• Identify 5-10 potential swap partners in your niche.
• Draft a friendly, personalized outreach email proposing the swap.

Key Takeaways:

• Partner traffic strategies like email swaps and guest webinars can quickly grow your audience and email list.
• Success requires high-value lead magnets, easy-to-use promotional materials, and genuine, mutually beneficial relationships.
• Consistency and relationship-building are the keys to sustainable growth.

Connect:
For more resources and to get the “Your Message Matters” book series, visit platformgrowthbooks.com.

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Supercharge Your Audience Growth with the Guest Video Traffic Playbook

Want the books? PlatformGrowthBooks.com

Episode Summary:
Host Jonathan Milligan shares the powerful “Guest Video Traffic Playbook” that helped him gain 6,500 email subscribers in just two weeks—without spending a dime on ads. In this episode, Jonathan breaks down how hosting and guesting on virtual summits and video interviews can rapidly grow your audience, boost your authority, and open doors to new opportunities.

Key Topics Covered:

• The story behind Jonathan’s first virtual summit and how it exploded his email list.
• Why being both a guest and a host of video interviews is the fastest way to grow your network and credibility.
• The pitfalls of waiting for interview invites and the importance of proactive outreach.
• How technology and virtual events have made it easier than ever to connect with new audiences.

The Guest Video Traffic Playbook:

1. Build Your Digital Stage:
   • Create a strong online presence and register on speaker networks like HeySummit.
   • Craft a compelling speaker profile that highlights your expertise and availability.
2. Become a Detective:
   • Use Google to find virtual summits in your niche.
   • Reach out to past summit hosts and ask about future opportunities.
3. Ride the Wave:
   • Promote every interview you land across your website, social media, and email list.
   • Leverage momentum from high-profile appearances to secure more interviews.
4. Become the Host:
   • Organize your own virtual summit by inviting experts, setting a date, and preparing a simple registration page.
   • Collaborate with guests to promote the event and maximize reach.
5. Execute with Excellence:
   • Conduct engaging interviews, make it easy for people to register, and ensure every guest brings value to the audience.

Action Step:
Create your “Guest Expert One Pager”:

• Get a professional headshot.
• Write a punchy 2-3 sentence bio.
• List 3-5 hot topics you love discussing.
• Brainstorm 5-7 questions hosts could ask you.
• Include links to previous interviews or content.
• Add your contact info and availability.
• Register on speaker networks and use your one pager to pitch yourself for interviews.

Key Takeaways:

• Proactively seek out interview opportunities—don’t wait to be discovered.
• Use the momentum from each appearance to secure more guest spots and grow your audience.
• Hosting your own virtual summit can dramatically accelerate your list growth and establish you as an authority.

Connect:
For more resources and to get the physical editions of the “Your Message Matters” series, visit platformgrowthbooks.com.

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Podcast Show Notes: Chapter 16 – The Guest Podcasting Traffic Playbook

Want to buy the books? PlatformGrowthBooks.com

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Jonathan shares how the pandemic forced him to pivot his book launch strategy from live events to guest podcasting. He reveals how appearing on 100+ podcasts became his “Hidden Stages” strategy for reaching new audiences and how you can use guest podcasting to grow your own influence—no book required!

Key Topics Covered:

• The challenge of launching a book during the pandemic and the shift to podcast guesting.
• Why guest podcasting is a powerful way to access “hidden stages” and engaged audiences.
• Common pitfalls: cold emailing big shows, accepting every invite, and wasting time on low-impact appearances.
• The smarter approach: using podcast matching services to find relevant, established shows.

The Guest Podcasting Playbook:

1. Sign Up for Podcast Matching Services:
   Use platforms like Pod Match to connect with shows that fit your expertise.
2. Optimize Your Guest Profile:
   Craft a compelling bio, include social links, and showcase previous appearances for credibility.
3. Tailor Your Pitch:
   Research each show, listen to episodes, and customize your outreach to match the host’s style and audience.
4. Prepare Engaging Content:
   Develop stories, case studies, and actionable advice. Create a “one sheet” with discussion topics.
5. Deliver Value in Interviews:
   Focus on actionable insights and personal stories to inform and inspire listeners.
6. Promote Your Appearances:
   Share interviews on social media, write blog posts, and repurpose content to maximize reach.
7. Follow Up and Build Relationships:
   Thank hosts, stay in touch, and nurture connections for future opportunities.

Action Step:
Complete the 24-hour guest podcasting launch:

• Sign up for a matching service.
• Build your guest profile.
• Research and select 5 target podcasts.
• Draft tailored pitches and a one sheet of topics.
• Practice your delivery and send your pitches.

Key Takeaways:

• Guest podcasting is a high-leverage strategy for audience growth, especially when traditional methods are limited.
• Focus on value, promotion, and relationship-building to maximize your impact.
• Consistency and preparation turn podcast guesting from a one-off tactic into a long-term growth engine.

Connect:
For more strategies and resources, visit Jonathan’s blog and subscribe to the Market Your Message Show.

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Podcast Show Notes: Market Your Message Show – Chapter 15: The Guest Blogging Traffic Playbook

Episode Summary:
Host Jonathan returns from his July sabbatical to continue the "Your Message Matters" series, focusing on building your audience. This episode dives into guest blogging and, more importantly, how to leverage media mentions for explosive audience growth.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why Jonathan takes a July sabbatical and the importance of work-life balance.
• The story of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" and how media mentions transformed its success.
• The pitfalls of traditional guest blogging: time-consuming, uncertain results, and low ROI.
• The smarter alternative: using media mentions to reach larger audiences with less effort.

The Media Mentions Playbook:

1. Sign Up for HARO (Help a Reporter Out):
   Get daily emails with journalist queries looking for expert input.
2. Be Selective:
   Focus on queries that match your expertise and target audience.
3. Craft Snappy Responses:
   Keep answers under 150 words, clear, and quotable.
4. Polish Your Bio:
   Make it short, relevant, and include a link to your blog.
5. Play the Numbers Game:
   Respond to multiple queries daily to increase your chances.
6. Track and Follow Up:
   Use a spreadsheet to log submissions and follow up on potential publications.
7. Amplify Your Mentions:
   Share your media mentions across social media, your website, and newsletters.

Action Step:
Set up your HARO account, pick 3-5 relevant queries, craft concise responses, and track your progress. Make this a daily habit to build credibility and visibility.

Key Takeaways:

• Media mentions are more efficient and impactful than traditional guest blogging.
• Consistency and focus on high-impact strategies are crucial for audience growth.
• Leverage existing platforms to boost your authority and SEO.

Connect:
For more tips and resources, visit Jonathan’s blog and subscribe to the Market Your Message Show.

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Mastering Pinterest Post Algorithm Change: The Ultimate Traffic Playbook

Grab a Copy of the Build Your Audience Book: https://platformgrowthbooks.com

In this episode of the Market Your Message Show, host Jonathan Milligan takes a deep dive into the chaos that ensued in early 2020, known as Rein Gate, when Pinterest's algorithm change drastically affected traffic for many users. Drawing from Chapter 14 of his book 'Build Your Audience,' Milligan explains how savvy content creators turned the upheaval into a growth opportunity.

Listeners will learn the secrets behind the new Pinterest algorithm, discover common pitfalls to avoid, and get a step-by-step guide to mastering Pinterest SEO and other advanced strategies. Whether you're a Pinterest newbie or a seasoned pro, this post-Rein Gate roadmap will help you transform Pinterest into a powerful, reliable traffic source for your website or blog.

00:00 The Great Pinterest Panic of 2020
01:02 Introduction to the Pinterest Traffic Playbook
01:52 Understanding Pinterest's Algorithm Shift
03:46 Why Pinterest is a Powerful Traffic Source
04:58 Common Pinterest Mistakes to Avoid
06:10 New Rules for Pinterest Success
07:47 Step-by-Step Guide to Mastering Pinterest
12:34 Pinterest Quick Win Exercise
14:47 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

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Mastering YouTube Growth: Strategies from Think Media's Journey

Grab a Copy of the Build Your Audience Book: https://platformgrowthbooks.com

This episode of the Market Your Message Show, hosted by Jonathan Milligan, dives into the origin and success story of Sean Canal's Think Media. From starting out with minimal resources to building an eight-figure brand with millions of YouTube subscribers, Sean's journey exemplifies grit, consistency, and strategic growth.

The episode covers essential strategies for YouTube success, including the importance of a clear content plan, mastering SEO, and engaging with audiences. Advanced tactics such as leveraging Google search visibility, using email lists for momentum, and analyzing competitors' channels are also discussed. Listeners are guided through actionable exercises to brainstorm viral video ideas tailored to their passions and audience needs.

00:00 Sean Canal's Humble Beginnings
00:59 Introduction to Market Your Message Show
01:59 Chapter 13: The YouTube Traffic Playbook
03:44 Avoiding Common YouTube Pitfalls
04:38 Crafting a Winning YouTube Strategy
07:54 Advanced YouTube Growth Strategies
10:40 YouTube Topic Brainstorming Exercise
12:12 Key Takeaways for YouTube Success