#284 The Secret to Zigging When Everyone Else Zags

Most entrepreneurs are doing everything they can to avoid failure. But what if that mindset is actually what’s slowing you down? In this episode of Business with Impact, I’m sharing why the fastest-growing businesses aren’t playing it safe, and how you can build unstoppable momentum by learning to fail faster.What to Listen For:Why failing fast is the quickest way to business growthThe real reason most entrepreneurs stay stuck (and how to move forward)The 3D Framework for diagnosing what’s actually not workingHow to use scraped knees and failed launches as stepping stones to successWhat most entrepreneurs misunderstand about “risk vs. reward”Why The Growth Lab™ was built for fast action and faster dataRachel’s personal challenge to you: Do the thing today.Success doesn’t come from playing it safe. It comes from taking action, getting answers, and doing it again. That’s how momentum is created, and that’s exactly what we’re helping clients do inside The Growth Lab. Whether you join us there or take the next step on your own, just start. You’ll either get the result you want or the data you need to try again.👉 Learn more and join the Growth Lab: rachelmcmichael.com/growthlab 👉 DM Rachel on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael and share what action you’re taking today!Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: rachelmcmichael.com/landingConnect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelJoin The Growth Lab™: rachelmcmichael.com/growthlab

In a world obsessed with speed and AI generated content, we're talking about why slowing down and serving well is your best strategy to stand out online. This episode is packed with wisdom, metaphors (you’ll love the farmer’s market one!), and a sneak peek into what’s coming soon to Business with Impact!What to Listen For:The #1 way to zig while others zag in today’s fast-paced online spaceThe farmer’s market analogy that explains exactly why your service sets you apartWhy over-reliance on AI could be hurting your long-term brand (even if it saves time now)How connection and live interaction are your biggest secret weaponsWhy service is your competitive advantageTwo ways you can connect directly with Rachel this month (spoiler: free coaching!)How “support that actually replies” builds trust that scalesAs more businesses hide behind bots and blanket automations, the way to stand out online is by being the one who shows up, serves well, and actually listens. My challenge for you this week? Zig when others zag. Show up for your people in a way that no one else is, and watch what happens.Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: rachelmcmichael.com/landingConnect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelLearn more about The Business with Impact Academy™: rachelmcmichael.com/academyDM “LAB” on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael to get more info.

I know this could be considered a bold or controversial statement in a world where everyone seems to be talking about ChatGPT, Claude, or the latest AI tool that promises to make your business easier. (And spoiler alert, then can!)But here’s the truth: AI can’t replace the one thing your business actually needs to thrive… a steady stream of clients.In this episode we're talking about:Why AI is an incredible tool, but isn't the only system needed for growth.When AI works best... and the specific area to fix when it's not getting you the results you're after.The real difference between tools (temporary) and systems (scalable).The danger of sounding like everyone else, and what to do instead.What the entrepreneurs winning right now are doing differently with AI.Why it’s okay if you’re not an AI expert (you’re not behind).The timeless client-getting system that future-proofs your business.What to focus on if you feel like “the best kept secret” in your industry.AI isn't new - it's been around in other forms like Siri and Google for a long time. It's an excellent tool, but it's not the whole foundation for systems that scale. If you want consistent clients and long-term growth, the answer is simple, repeatable systems that work no matter what platform or trend comes and goes.Listen in to how we're using AI (and how we're not) and make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Want more info on the simple system our clients use to scale? DM me “Growth Lab” on Instagram or connect at rachelmcmichael.com to learn more.Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: rachelmcmichael.com/landingConnect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelLearn more about The Business with Impact Academy™: rachelmcmichael.com/academyDM “GROWTH LAB” on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael to get more info.

 On today's episode, I am so excited to introduce you to my friend and mastermind client, the extraordinary marketing coach and super copywriter, Ashley Conway!In this episode, we're going to be diving into mistakes that you might be making in your business that are causing you to blend in with the crowd and losing you valuable leads. How can you write copy that allows you to truly stand out from all the voices on the internet? How can you write copy that attracts your ideal audience? Are you falling into some of these common mistakes and misconceptions?I can’t wait to discuss all of these things and more with you on today’s episode. Let’s dive in!>> At 2:58, before discussing mistakes people make in their copywriting, Ashley tells us some common mistakes business owners make when it comes to hiring a copywriter for their business. >> At 5:51,  we talk about  mistakes that her clients are making right now that are causing them to blend in and to lose leads. Ashley gives us some examples of what good stand out marketing would look like versus blend in marketing.>> At 14:13, Ashley goes into some real life examples of what she sees when business owners start to get their marketing and messaging right; and she even offers a FREE training you can download and watch that discusses the top 10 most common copywriting mistakes business owners make. Important Links:Follow Ashley on Instagram: @beweirdmarketingWatch Ashley’s FREE training: 10 Reasons You Aren't Standing Out From Your CompetitionFollow Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelGet your High Converting Landing Page Template: rachelmcmichael.com/landingpage

What if you could sign your next three clients even if your offer is only half scribbled on a Google Doc, you’ve got a tiny audience, and zero team.If you’ve ever thought, “I just need someone to show me how to start making sales now, without all the moving pieces,” this episode is for you.Today, I’m giving you the inside look at my Scrappy Launch System… the same one our clients are using right now to sell their offers… without a fancy funnel, a big list, or a full launch runway.What to listen for:Why most entrepreneurs are building their business backward, and how to fix it.The surprising reason you should sell your offer before it's fully ready.How to get paid to create your program before you record a single video.What a “Magnetic Yes Offer” is and why it makes selling easier.Two flexible sales plans that work no matter where you're starting.How to turn launch feedback into your next success story.Why launching doesn’t have to feel overwhelming (or perfect).The one thing that matters more than likes, followers, or funnels: momentum.You don’t need a polished funnel or a massive list to make your next sale… you just need a clear offer, a simple plan, and the courage to launch scrappy. If you're ready to learn how to sell before you’re “ready,” this episode lays it all out.Want to go deeper? DM me the word SCRAPPY over on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael and I’ll send you the details for our Scrappy Launch System experience. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show and leave a review so we can keep bringing you powerful strategies like these!Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: rachelmcmichael.com/landingConnect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelLearn more about The Business with Impact Academy™: rachelmcmichael.com/academyDM “SCRAPPY” on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael to get details about the Scrappy Launch System experience.

If business feels frustrating right now…If you’re doing all the things and still wondering why nothing’s quite landing…It might not be because you're doing the wrong things.It might be because you're doing the right things... at the wrong stage.One of the biggest reasons smart, talented online business owners stall out and plateau?They’re executing Stage 3 strategies… while still stuck in Stage 1.Or they’re looping in Stage 2 without ever building a strong Stage 1 foundation.In this episode, I’m breaking down the three stages of online business growth – what they really look like, what to focus on at each one, and what you can completely ignore for now.Because doing the right work at the wrong time? Leads to unnecessary hustle and overwhelm.What to listen for:The #1 mistake that keeps entrepreneurs stuck (and burned out)Why doing “advanced” strategies too early can stall your growthThe simple breakdown of Stage 1: Scrappy Sales + ValidationWhat not to waste time on when you’re starting outThe exact markers that signal you’re ready for Stage 2How to move from “manual momentum” to scalable successWhy you don’t need a team of 10 to hit consistent incomeWhat it really looks like to step into Impactful CEO mode in Stage 3The difference between automated, automatic, and AI systemsTrying to build a successful online business on a shaky foundation? That’s a recipe for frustration. But when you understand which stage of business you’re truly in, you can stop plateauing and start building with simple systems that work. If you’re ready to plug into the proven systems that match where you are now, tune into this episode.Listen now, subscribe to the show, and check out The Business with Impact Academy™ to start building your business the simple, scalable way.Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: https://rachelmcmichael.com/landingFacebook Ads Episode #276: https://rachelmcmichael.com/276Connect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelLearn more about The Business with Impact Academy™: https://rachelmcmichael.com/academy

Can we both agree that hustling 24/7 isn’t sustainable? In this episode, I’ll show you the exact framework I use (and teach my clients) to build a simple, high-impact system that creates consistent sales – even when you’re not constantly posting, launching, or showing up on camera.What to listen for:The 3-part Impact Framework that drives consistent sales Why visibility without profitability is keeping you stuckThe truth about posting daily (and what to do instead)The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make when they don’t have an offerWhat to do if you’re getting leads, but no one’s buyingHow to optimize one funnel instead of building 10Why your list isn’t converting (and how to fix it)The weekly traffic rhythm Rachel uses to grow her audienceThe secret to 6:45 AM sales while making breakfast for the kidsHow evergreen and live launch strategies can work together for scalable salesYou don’t need to be online 24/7 to make sales—you just need a system that works while you live your life. The Impact Framework is that system. It’s simple. It’s scalable. And it’s what we help you build inside the Business With Impact Academy™.Ready to learn how to implement it in your own business? Tune in to this episode now and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and grab your free landing page template below!Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: https://rachelmcmichael.com/landingJoin Ads That Convert™: https://rachelmcmichael.com/ads Connect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelLearn more about The Business with Impact Academy™: https://rachelmcmichael.com/academy

You created the freebie. You poured your best tips into it. Shared it. Promoted it. Maybe even ran some ads.And if you’re still refreshing your screen thinking… “Where are the leads?”Before we blame the algorithm… Before we burn it all down and start over… Let’s get real about what’s actually going on.Because here’s what no one’s talking about:Free offers (aka opt-ins, lead magnets, lead generators, freebies) can work.Free leads can turn into paying clients.But only when the freebie, the offer, and the message are fully aligned.This episode is your behind-the-scenes look at what makes a lead magnet actually convert – without needing a massive audience or fancy funnel.I’m breaking down:The 3 quiet killers of conversionWhat most freebies get wrongAnd the small, strategic shifts that change everythingLet’s fix the freebie. Let’s get it working. Let’s finally make it convert.What to listen for:Why “just provide value” is an outdated strategyHow vagueness is killing conversions (and how to fix it)The real purpose of a landing page – and why most are doing too muchWhat your CTA should look like (and where to put it)The 3 mistakes so many make with their lead magnetsWhy clear beats catchy every timeThe one thing all high-converting free offers have in commonSimple headline shifts that can triple your opt-in rateReal-life examples of tweaks that led to 3x and 4x conversionsThe exact structure of a high-converting landing page (plus a free template!)Your freebie isn’t broken, it likely just needs a few tweaks to fix it. You don’t need a bigger audience or more traffic to see real results. You need the right words in the right places.Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with a biz friend, and grab your free high-converting landing page template below!Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: rachelmcmichael.com/landingConnect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelLearn more about The Business with Impact Academy™: rachelmcmichael.com/academy

If your funnel isn’t converting, it’s not because your audience is too small or your content isn’t “good enough”? In this episode, Rachel uncovers the real reasons your funnel is stalling – and the exact steps to fix it. Spoiler: It’s not about scrapping everything. It’s about tweaking and refining what’s already there.What to listen for:The real definition of a funnel (hint: it’s not just a landing page and a freebie)Why “set it and forget it” funnels aren't the goalThe dangers of funnel hacking without full context3 conversion-killing mistakes (and how to fix them)Why ghosting your leads is the fastest way to lose a saleHow “mysterious offers” are quietly killing your conversionsThe surprising way your freebie could be attracting the wrong audienceThe essential funnel ingredients most people are missingWhy your landing page might not be the problem (but your messaging is)A simple self-audit checklist to troubleshoot your funnel todayFunnels don’t need to be burned down. They just need refining. Whether your funnel is falling flat at the landing page, the email sequence, or the sales page, this episode gives you the clarity to fix what’s not working – without starting from scratch.Ready to create a funnel that actually converts? Press play now. And don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with a biz friend, and grab your free high-converting landing page template below!Important Links:Grab your FREE High Converting Landing Page Template: rachelmcmichael.com/landingConnect with Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichaelLearn more about The Business with Impact Academy™: rachelmcmichael.com/academy

Today on the Business With Impact podcast, we’re talking about one of my favorite things: Facebook Ads!   A question I still get asked all of the time is: “How do I know when I’m ready for Facebook ads?” As an ad expert, I wanted to share the exact framework I share with our clients  in the Business with Impact Academy™ when they’re trying to make this decision in their business. We’re going to talk through three simple questions to ask yourself before deciding to move forward with ads. So, have a pen and paper ready and let’s dive in! --- Links mentioned in this episode:  → Follow Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichael → Learn more about The Business with Impact Academy HERE. → Grab your FREE organic traffic checklist HERE!