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What if the difference between a forgettable podcast interview and one the host can’t wait to promote came down to what you do before you ever hit record? In this episode, I’m joined by Julie Riga, who interviewed me on her show just last week. Our conversation was so good I knew I had to bring her expertise to you. Julie Riga is a leadership keynote speaker, executive coach, ICF certified coach, and TEDx speaker with more than 20 years of leadership experience in the pharmaceutical industry, including Johnson & Johnson, Novartis, and Bayer. Through her signature keynote, Before I Lead, she helps leaders build the presence, judgment, and trust that technology cannot replace. She’s also the host of The Stay on the Course Podcast and the creator of Before I Speak, a weekly program that helps people become confident, engaging communicators on stages, podcasts, and beyond. In this episode, we cover: Julie’s origin story, from webmaster to corporate trainer to speaker, and how a coaching session led to a document called “Before I Speak” (and why Ramon Ray told her to buy the URL)Why practice is the fastest path to feeling comfortable on any stage or micThe #1 thing every podcast guest needs before an interview: know your thought leadership and walk in ready to say what you speak onWhy the best interviews are co-created, and the question Julie asks every guest on her pre-call to help shape the episode titleWhy pre-calls are worth your time, and how mine with Julie changed the whole energy of our interviewWhy some episodes never get published (and why I can’t guarantee a host will air a boring interview)“Edutainment”: using humor, stand-up comedy techniques, and storytelling so your audience actually remembers what you saidHow to build a story vault of go-to stories so you’re never telling a story for the first time on airWhy podcast interviews are the training ground for television Resources mentioned: JulieRiga.com — find the Before I Speak program (under Programs) and Julie’s podcast. Before I Speak meets Mondays at 7 p.m. Eastern with rolling admission.Listen to my interview on Julie’s podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7g7fCsYqzhS6Isxcg4EaDHConnect with Julie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieriga/ Being a great guest starts long before you hit record, and it starts with getting booked on the right shows. Join me at the free Podcast Guesting Masterclass to learn how to land interviews on podcasts your ideal clients are already listening to. Register here: interviewconnections.com/masterclass-2026

Episode SummaryJessica sits down with Adrienne Wilkerson, CEO of Beacon Media and Marketing, to talk about one of the most overlooked aspects of business growth: tracking your data. They dive into a real client story that exposed the gap between "marketing says we're driving leads" and "sales says nobody's picking up the phone." This episode is essential listening for podcast guests who want to know if their appearances are actually working. Key TakeawaysOn Niching Down A specific niche makes your marketing dollar go fartherYour messaging becomes clearer when you know exactly who you serveUnexpected benefit: deeper connection with clients when you understand their world intimatelyGoing national forced Adrienne's team to move from "small business" (too broad) to "behavioral health" (specific enough to dominate) On The Gap Between Marketing & Sales Marketing reports 50 leads generated. Sales says they got 1 client. Something's broken.The disconnect isn't always a marketing problem—it's usually a systems/operations problemExample: Owner can't answer phone because she's in patient sessions. Leads go cold in 3+ days instead of the required 3-5 minutesIn addiction recovery, that missed call window could mean months or years before someone finds courage to call again On Tracking Your Data (The Core Message) If you don't know your website traffic in the last 30 days, you don't know if podcast guesting is workingYou need to track the ratio/cycle: when traffic goes up, how long before bookings go up?Too much data overwhelms. Simplify to 3-5 key metrics (top of funnel, middle, bottom)Correlation matters: spend more on ads in June, see results in August/September—that's the cycle you need to know On Lead Response Time Behavioral health/addiction recovery: must respond in 3-5 minutes or leads go coldLarger clinics: need dedicated intake team, but if they're on 20+ minute calls with one person, you still miss new callsSmall clinics: the owner wants to grow but can't be front desk + therapist simultaneouslySolutions exist, but you have to see the data to know what to fix On Niching's Business Impact Smaller marketing budget against huge pools (all small businesses) = wasteSmaller marketing budget against specific pools (behavioral health) = dominationHaving lived experience in the industry (Adrienne's dad was a therapist) opens doors and builds trust fast Highlights & QuotesOn the data gap: "Marketing over here going, we're doing a great job! We're driving lots of leads. And then you've got your intake team over here going, 'Crickets.'"On courage and timing: "The courage it took to make that call only lasts so long. And if we miss that one window because we couldn't answer the phone, it could be years, months before they're back at a place where they have the courage to make that call again."On tracking results: "If you don't know how many unique visitors have hit your website in the last 30 days, how do you know if the website traffic is increasing when you start guesting on podcasts? You don't."On understanding cycles: "If my traffic goes up, how long is it before my bookings start going up? Understanding those ratios—because there's always a ratio." Guest InformationAdrienne Wilkerson Co-Founder & CEO of Beacon Media and Marketing Beacon Media and Marketing was founded in Anchorage, Alaska in 2012 and now serves mental health and behavioral health companies across North America. They specialize in marketing strategy, paid advertising, lead tracking, and systems optimization for healthcare providers. Her Background: Grew up with a therapist father; worked in his practiceUnderstands the unique pain points of behavioral health businesses (90+ day insurance payment cycles, intake bottlenecks, call response urgency)14+ years building marketing systems that connect leads to conversions Resources & LinksFind Beacon Media and Marketing: Website: beaconmm.com LinkedIn: Adrienne Wilkerson (active in marketing/data conversations) Referenced in Episode: Anonymous Health (Bob's story about addiction recovery call attempts)Google Analytics (for tracking website traffic)Kevin St. Clergy (previous IC podcast episode on "blind blaming") Topics CoveredNiching down as a business strategyThe difference between marketing-generated leads and sales-closed clientsLead response time requirements in behavioral healthOperational bottlenecks vs. marketing problemsTracking key data points without overwhelmUnderstanding the cycle between traffic spike and booking increaseSystems solutions for small vs. large behavioral health clinicsHow podcast guesting results actually show up in your metricsBuilding credibility through lived industry experience For Podcast Guests ListeningThis episode speaks directly to you: if you're guesting on podcasts to grow your coaching or service business, you must know your baseline website traffic, lead count, and conversion rate before you start. Then track them monthly. That's how you'll know which podcasts are actually moving the needle. Ready to Get on Podcasts? 🎙️Stop Being the Best-Kept Secret in Your Industry Join Jessica Rhodes for a FREE 3-Day Masterclass on how to use strategic podcast appearances to build a predictable, authority-based client acquisition system for your coaching business. LIVE DATES: Monday, October 19-21 at 12PM ET What You'll Learn:Day 1: Positioning What to say so podcast hosts say, "I need this person on my show!" Day 2: Monetization Where to send listeners so you actually get clients from podcast guesting Day 3: Repurposing What to do with your podcast interviews so you multiply your visibility and reach 10X more people with every podcast you do What You'll Get When You Attend Live:The exact framework for a Podcast One Sheet that makes hosts say YESThe mindset hack that unlocks massive abundance for your podcast guesting journeyWhy podcast guesting is the #1 client acquisition strategy for coachesThe biggest mistakes to avoid when inviting listeners to connect with you onlineOne simple tool to turn one podcast into 30 days of daily content Who This Is For:This masterclass is for coaches, consultants, and business owners who know that when the right people hear you speak, you get clients. This is NOT for you if you're looking for a "get rich quick" hack. Reserve Your Spot Now → (Limited spots available!)

Episode SummaryJess sits down with long-time friend and business coach Kami Guildner to talk about what it means to be a "movement maker" and the power of stepping into bigger visibility. They discuss Jess's new 10x goal for Interview Connections, including her plans for a live event (Interview Connections Live), energy work and inner alignment, building community through events and podcasting, and lessons from Kami's 12 years of hosting the Extraordinary Women Ignite conference. Key TakeawaysOn Movement Making Movement makers are people who know their work will create real change and refuse to play smallAlignment from the inside out—who you're being through the process—matters as much as what you're doingWomen's wisdom and visibility create a ripple effect of impact that goes beyond individual business success On Scaling & The 10x Goal Jess is 10x-ing Interview Connections with her business coach's guidanceNew initiatives include Interview Connections Live (a regional, one-day workshop event) launching in fall in New EnglandLive events create community in ways that digital doesn't—people are craving in-person connection On Inner Work & Energy Nourishing your vessel is equally important as business action-takingEnergy work, proper nutrition, movement, and practices like Reiki support the clarity needed for big visionsHorses as mirrors for grounding and accessing inner wisdom (Kami's unique approach with her Movement Maker Mastermind clients) On Live Events Size matters: 100-person conferences allow for deeper connections without overwhelming new attendeesKami's Extraordinary Women Ignite is about 40% repeat clients, 60% new attendees—a strong business driverPodcast booths at conferences amplify reach (Kami's pivot from 60-second snippets to full 10-minute interviews for easier publishing) On Podcasting as a Business Tool Podcasting builds relationships with people you've never met and shortens the sales cycleListeners who binge your podcast content feel they already know youGuest podcasting + hosting your own podcast work synergisticallyReal conversations can't be replicated by AI—this is why both podcasting and live events matter Highlights & QuotesOn alignment: "When women get in full alignment with their purpose, it creates not only impact from what they're doing, but who they're being through that process."On inner work: "If you're 10x-ing your business, what are you doing to keep your vessel clear and clean? We have to nourish our bodies with the right foods, energy work, and movements."On movement making: "Someone who knows what they're doing is going to really create a difference for a group of people, and they're stepping up in ways where they're not going to play small anymore."On podcasting: "It's the best way to build relationships with people you don't know, because you get to go into deeper conversation with people." Guest InformationKami Guildner Business coach for high-vibe women entrepreneurs • Connector • Storyteller Kami works with Movement Maker women entrepreneurs who have built successful businesses and are scaling to multiple six-figures and beyond, stepping into their next level of visibility, influence, and revenue. Her Impact: Hosts Extraordinary Women Radio podcast (9 years, ranked in top 1.5%)Runs Extraordinary Women Ignite conference (12 years, 100 women, Colorado)Leads Movement Maker Mastermind (year-long program with horses-based retreats)Trained in Reiki and healing touch (30+ years); integrates energy work and horses into her coaching Resources & LinksFind Kami Online: Website: KamiGuildner.com Conference: KamiGuildner.com/ignite Podcast: Extraordinary Women Radio In This Episode: Interview Connections Live (upcoming regional workshop events)JJ Virgin's Mindshare Summit (San Diego, late September) — Interview Connections is the exclusive podcast booking agencyKatie Brinkley (podcast professional featured in Kami's conference podcast booth) Topics CoveredMovement making and purposeful scalingJess's 10x goal and new initiativesEnergy work, inner alignment, and Reiki with horsesBuilding community through live events vs. conferencesThe power of podcasting for relationship building and business growthEvent planning tips and toolsSmall vs. large conference dynamicsPodcast guesting as a visibility and sales strategy Ready to Get on Podcasts? Master the #1 Authority Growth System for Coaches in 2026 Join Jessica Rhodes for a FREE 4-Part Live Masterclass on how to use strategic podcast appearances to build a predictable, authority-based client acquisition system for your coaching business. Reserve Your Spot Now at https://interviewconnections.com/masterclass-2026/

Episode Overview Discover the #1 thing podcast guests can do to convert listeners into dream clients—a simple strategy that the majority of podcast guests are getting wrong. Learn why your end-of-interview call-to-action is your golden opportunity to transform listeners into high-ticket coaching clients. Host: Jessica Rhodes, Founder & CEO, Interview Connections Topic: Converting Podcast Listeners Into Coaching Clients Through Strategic Calls-to-Action Key Takeaways 1. The Host Question "How Can Our Listeners Connect With You?" Is Your Conversion Moment This closing question is NOT just a polite formality—it's your cue to offer a valuable free giftMost podcast guests miss this critical opportunity by defaulting to: "Find me on Instagram, visit my website, check out my LinkedIn"When you recognize this as your conversion moment, you can direct listeners toward becoming your client The Pitfall Most Guests Fall Into Answering the host's question in a scattered, unfocused wayDirecting listeners to multiple platforms without a clear next stepTelling people what social media you're on instead of what action you want them to takeLosing the opportunity because listeners don't know where to go or what to do 2. The Strategy That Converts: One Clear, Valuable Free Gift Prepare ONE compelling free offer to give at the end of every interview Don't list your various options—choose the one free gift that creates the most valueDirect 100% of your listeners to the same place (not scattered across multiple platforms) The Free Gift Should Be: Valuable enough to entice listeners to take immediate actionClearly connected to their pain point or goalEasy to access (one URL, one clear step)Positioned as the starting point of their journey toward becoming your client Why This Works Listeners get clarity on what to do nextYou capture their information and get them into your funnelThe gift demonstrates your expertise and valueIt naturally positions you as the solution to their problem 3. The Numbers: How Podcast Interviews Drive Client Acquisition Interview Connections by the Numbers Founded in 2013 to enable Jessica to be a stay-at-home mom (her dad was the first client)Over 50,000 podcast interviews bookedThousands of coaches, consultants, and experts helped build their businessesThe strategy works—when executed correctly The Real Opportunity Podcast appearances are one of the highest-ROI lead-generation channels for coachesBut most coaches don't maximize the conversion because they get the call-to-action wrongOne strategic change—a clear, valuable free gift instead of scattered social links—can dramatically increase your client pipeline The Mindset Shift Required Move from answering the host's question to leveraging it Old mindset: "The host is asking me a polite closing question—I'll just answer it"New mindset: "This is my biggest conversion opportunity on the entire show—I need to make it count" Call to Action Free Podcast Guesting Masterclass Ready to turn podcast interviews into dream coaching clients? Reserve your spot now: Visit: interviewconnections.com/masterclass Learn the proven system used by 1000s of coaches, consultants, and expertsDiscover how to convert more podcast listeners into your dream clients Topics Covered Podcast guesting strategy for coachesLead generation from podcast appearancesThe power of an effective end-of-interview call-to-actionHow to structure a free gift that compels listeners to take actionConverting podcast listeners into high-ticket coaching clientsBuilding an effective offer funnel from podcast guest appearancesThe 13-year evolution of Interview Connections and podcast booking Resources Interview Connections Website: interviewconnections.com Free Masterclass: interviewconnections.com/masterclass

Episode Overview In this PodSwap episode, Jessica Rhodes sits down with Hersh Rephun, a branding strategist who helps founders, CEOs, and thought leaders ensure their work is interpreted correctly from the moment it's encountered. Hersh is the founder of Yes Brand Builders, host of Yes Brand and Truth Tastes Funny podcasts, and author of Selling the Truth. Learn what podcast hosts are actually looking for when they evaluate you as a guest, why your positioning matters before you ever step on a mic, and how to craft a first impression that converts listeners into dream clients. Key Stat: Podcast hosts receive 5-10 pitches per day. What makes yours stand out? It's not what you think. Understanding Your First Impression (0:08 - 1:10) Your first impression isn't just the moment someone meets you—it's everywhere they encounter you. On your website, in your social media bio, in your email signature. Hersh defines it as a comprehensive thing that includes all the work you've done and how the marketplace perceives you at any given moment. The Real Pitfall: Two Approaches That Backfire (1:12 - 2:31) Many experts make one of two mistakes: The Everything Approach: Listing everything you do with hyphens and hoping people find what they need. Result? A confused first impression with no clear signal.The One-Thing Approach: Narrowing down to just one thing. Result? You get lumped in with every other person doing that one thing. The solution: Integrate multiple aspects into something that stands out, rather than taking things away. What Podcast Hosts Actually Look For (3:28 - 7:40) Hosts receive 5-10 pitches per day. When they evaluate a potential guest, Hersh typically goes to the website first—it's usually the thing you've invested the most thought into. He's looking for "friction"—something that stands out and intrigues. The Three Types of Positioning Problems (8:23 - 10:05) Hersh identifies three positioning challenges: 1. Interpretive Friction: Nobody understands what you do. Your explanation is so convoluted that people switch off. Example: "It has to do with the solar system and lights, and then everything switches..." 2. Interpretive Compression: You're so simple or generic that you blend in with everyone else. Example: "I'm a dentist." (Same as every other dentist.) 3. Emerging in a Category of One: You're so unique and specialized that you're game-changing. Example: "I invented a pain-free root canal with no anesthesia." (Now people listen.) Finding the Positioning Sweet Spot (10:26 - 12:39) Your goal: Create a first impression that: ✅ Intrigues your audience enough to make them curious ✅ Is clear enough that they understand you ✅ Isn't so complex that they get tired trying to understand ✅ Isn't so simple that they've heard it a million times Hersh's personal example: "I work with interesting people who are tired of explaining themselves." This statement opens doors to deeper conversation ("How? Why interesting people? Why tired?") without being confusing or dismissive. Story Needs a Purpose, Not Just Chronology (13:09 - 15:12) Many people confuse story with just listing events: "When I was 15 this happened, when I was 17 that happened, now I do this." Real storytelling requires conceptual completion—explaining the meaning and the "why" behind what happened to you. When you just list events, the audience has to piece it together, and they may only remember fragments. The Host's Job Isn't Just to Interview (15:12 - 17:23) Hersh's business evolved from execution-focused work (PR, copywriting, creative direction) to something deeper: helping clients clarify their positioning upstream. He realized the real problem wasn't distribution or amplification—it was confusion on the audience's part. His "Authority Alignment" process helps you: Establish your signal clearlyStrategize your positioningOrganize your ecosystem so your message stays consistent across all platforms The goal: Ensure the interpretation the audience makes in those first 3 seconds is exactly what you intend. Real-World Example: How One Psychologist Repositioned Herself (18:05 - 22:15) The Challenge: Kirsten Harrison is a trauma psychologist who wrote a book about a relationship with a formerly homeless, trans client. When pitching to media, she kept getting positioned as "trauma expert"—limiting her to trauma-focused outlets. The Real Story: After working with Hersh, they discovered the true thread through her entire career was community—how to build and integrate people into communities in healthy ways. It's not just about trauma; it's about belonging. The Result: Kirsten now gets booked as a community-focused thinker, opening doors to public interest media, speaking engagements, and community-building events—rather than just trauma psychology conversations. The Lesson: "You can't read the label from inside the bottle." An outside expert can see positioning that's invisible when you're living it. Who Should Work With Hersh (22:28 - 24:03) His ideal clients are: Established and successful, mid-career (regardless of age)Advanced in their accomplishmentsPivoting to something newEvolving into something the marketplace hasn't caught up with yetTaking their expertise and applying it to new mediums (books, speaking, coaching) He works through focused, intentional engagements—not long-term retainers (unless it's a large operation). Key Takeaways 🎯 Your first impression is everything you've built and everywhere you show up—make sure it's cohesive 🎯 Avoid positioning extremes: not so complex that people give up, not so simple that you disappear 🎯 Intrigue is intentional—your positioning should invite curiosity, not provide complete closure 🎯 You need a consistent signal, not just one elevator pitch 🎯 Story requires meaning, not just chronology—explain the "why" behind what happened 🎯 Misalignment upstream creates kinks throughout your entire funnel (podcasts, sales, speaking) 🎯 An outside perspective is invaluable—you can't see your own positioning clearly Memorable Quotes "I work with interesting people who are tired of explaining themselves." - Hersh Rephun "You can't read the label from inside the bottle." - Jessica Rhodes "If it's exhausting, I'm not going to think about it. If it's so simple that I've heard it a million times, I'm not going to think about it. The idea is you want to intrigue the audience." - Hersh Rephun "A story isn't just chronological events—it's the conceptual experience." - Hersh Rephun Call to Action Ready to nail your first impression before you ever pitch a podcast host? Join Jessica's FREE Podcast Guesting Masterclass and learn: How to identify the real thread through your work (like Kirsten did)How to create positioning that intrigues hostsHow to craft messaging that converts listeners into dream clients Reserve your spot at: interviewconnections.com/masterclass Resources Mentioned Yes Brand Builders: yesbrandbuilders.com Hersh's Email: [email protected] Hersh's Podcasts: Yes Brand & Truth Tastes FunnyHersh's Book: Selling the TruthInterview Connections: interviewconnections.com Podcast Guesting Masterclass: interviewconnections.com/masterclass

Episode OverviewDiscover the current state of video in podcasting—how many shows are recording with video, how many are publishing it, and what this means for your podcast guesting strategy. Host: Jessica Rhodes, Founder & CEO, Interview Connections Topic: Video Adoption in Podcast Recording Key Takeaways1. Recording vs. Publishing Video Are Two Different ThingsRecording with Video: ~100% In Jessica's experience, virtually every podcast she appears on is recording with videoCommon platforms: Riverside, Zencastr, Zoom, StreamyardReason: Enables hosts and guests to see each other, read body language, and capture content for clipping Publishing Video to YouTube: ~60-65% While most podcasts record video, only about 65% of podcasts actively upload full video interviews to YouTubeThis represents the actual publishing of videos, not just recording capability Growing YouTube Audiences: Much Smaller Percentage Of the podcasts publishing to YouTube, only a fraction have truly engaged YouTube audiencesNot all YouTube views accurately reflect a show's actual listener base 2. Two Approaches to YouTubeStrategy 1: YouTube as a Primary Platform Podcasters who treat YouTube as a full growth channelCreate intro/trailer videos, optimize titles for viewsInvest intentional strategy in building a dedicated YouTube audienceActively grow views and engagement on the platform Strategy 2: YouTube as a Video Host Many podcasters use YouTube simply as a repository for video filesPurpose: Enable repurposing of interviews into short-form clipsWorkflow: Upload video to YouTube → grab the link → use tools like Opus to create social media clipsNot focused on YouTube audience growth 3. Where Your Real Audience IsImportant Reality: YouTube view counts ≠ actual podcast audience size Your guest appearance reaches listeners across: Spotify (most popular audio platform)Apple PodcastsDirect MP3 players on podcast host websitesOther audio platforms Key Insight: Most of a podcast's actual audience is listening via audio platforms, not watching YouTube videos. The Video Trend Over Time2013: 100% audio-only podcasts → 2026: Most podcasts recording with video Direction: Upward trend toward video adoption, but primarily for quality and content repurposing rather than YouTube audience building. Call to ActionFree Podcast Guesting MasterclassReady to learn how to turn podcast interviews into dream coaching clients? Reserve your spot now: Visit: interviewconnections.com/masterclass Topics CoveredCurrent state of video in podcastingRecording with video vs. publishing videoHow podcasters use YouTubeWhere your actual podcast audience listens13-year trend of video adoption in podcasting ResourcesInterview Connections Website: interviewconnections.com Free Masterclass: interviewconnections.com/masterclass Show: Interview https://interviewconnections.com/podcast/ Mentioned Tools: Riverside, Zencastr, Zoom, Streamyard, OpusInterview Connections Opus Affiliate Link: https://interviewconnections.com/Opus

Episode Summary In this behind-the-scenes episode, Jessica Rhodes pulls back the curtain on her personal coaching relationship with Samantha Ruberto, her energy coach and mentor. Discover how intentional energy work and inner awareness can literally transform your business, relationships, and life. Samantha shares her spiritual awakening story, the power of "soul surgery" coaching, and how Jessica went from grief and overwhelm to closing $7K in sales and sponsoring a major summit—all within 48 hours of investing in her inner work. Key Topics & TimestampsHow They Met & The Power of Energetic Connection [0:00–7:00] Jessica and Samantha connected in Melanie Ann Lair's AFE Next Mastermind (2024)The invisible, energetic pull between certain peopleWhy people magnetize to you based on how you make them feel, not just what you say Samantha's Spiritual Awakening Story [2:00–6:10] At 26, Samantha had a spiritual awakening (looked like a midlife crisis from the outside)She was climbing society's ladder in real estate but realized she wasn't happy despite checking all the boxesThe power of tuning out the outside world and listening to your inner voice The Grief Work & "Soul Surgery" Coaching [8:00–17:00] Jess's business partnership with Margy ended; they separated their companyManaging grief while staying friends and maintaining respectSamantha's approach to emotional work: reaching the energetics of a situation (the root)Instead of "blowing up" the relationship, they reshaped the energy to honor the love and growth The 48-Hour Shift [15:00–17:00] After one coaching session with Samantha and committing to her Soul Surgery program, Jess:Committed to sponsoring JJ Virgin's Mindshare SummitClosed $7K+ in sales (multiple client sign-ups)How inner work directly impacts your magnetic energy in business Intentions, Manifesting & Handling Life's Curveballs [18:00–22:00] Real-life example: Jess set an intention to be "surprised"—couch arrived 10 min earlyThe two roads: react with frustration OR handle it with graceWhen you trust the process, you surf through life's challenges with presenceSamantha's 12-year track record: inner work consistently leads to a better life Awareness Is the Game Changer [23:00–27:00] It's not just mindset, somatic work, or nervous system regulation—it's all togetherWhere attention goes, energy flows (Dr. Joe Dispenza)Building your awareness muscle to combat ego and negative thinking patterns95% of our thoughts are subconscious and programmed to keep us "safe"This often leads to self-sabotage; rewiring the unconscious mind is where transformation happens How to Work With Samantha [27:00–End] Two programs available: The Glow Up — foundational program to enter Samantha's world (101 of the work)Soul Surgery — one-to-one mentorship (deeper transformation) Find her on Instagram: @samantharuberto (or search: Samantha Ruberto) Key Takeaways✨ Energy is everything. People don't just hear your words; they feel your energy. Magnetizing clients starts with inner work. ✨ Awareness is the first step. Notice how interactions make you feel: expansive or contracted? This awareness is transformational. ✨ Inner work = outer results. Jess's business breakthrough followed immediately after committing to coaching her inner world. ✨ Grief doesn't have to be messy. With the right support, you can navigate relationship shifts with love, respect, and grace. ✨ Your unconscious runs the show. 95% of thoughts are subconscious; rewiring these patterns dissolves self-sabotage and unlocks your potential. Memorable Quotes"People can feel your energy, they'll just be magnetized to you once they hear you speak." — Jessica Rhodes "Awareness and paying attention is the first step in transformation." — Samantha Ruberto "It's not just what you're saying, it's how you make people feel. That's what magnetizes people to want to work with you." — Jessica Rhodes "When you truly love being you—through genuine inner work—your energy emits the most radiant glow and attracts everything meant for you." — Samantha Ruberto Guest Info:Samantha Ruberto Energy Coach | Somatic Practitioner | Mindset Coach | Soul Surgery Mentor 📍 Find Samantha: Instagram: @samantharubertoPrograms: The Glow Up | Soul Surgery (one-to-one mentorship)Link in bio for all offerings Episode ResourcesJJ Virgin's Mindshare Summit (mentioned as Interview Connections sponsorship)Dr. Joe Dispenza (referenced for: "Where attention goes, energy flows")Melanie Ann Lair's AFE Next Mastermind Call to ActionReady to Master Podcast Guesting? Join Jessica Rhodes in the Podcast Guesting Masterclass to learn how to land interviews on podcasts your ideal clients are already listening to. Register here: interviewconnections.com/masterclass-2026 Coaches: If you resonated with Samantha's message about energy, presence, and magnetizing clients through inner work, connect with her on Instagram. The combination of strategy (like podcast guesting) + inner alignment (like energy coaching) is the formula for sustainable business growth. For your podcast guesting strategy, don't forget: people book guests based on energy and connection. Work on being the most aligned, present version of yourself, and your podcast opportunities will follow.

Episode OverviewLearn the two most important things podcast hosts are looking for when considering guests and how to position yourself to get more podcast interviews for your coaching business. Host: Jessica Rhodes, Founder & CEO, Interview Connections Topic: Standing Out to Podcast Hosts Key Takeaways1. Value: Relevance is EverythingPodcast hosts receive constant pitches from subject matter experts seeking audience visibilityYour value must be relevant to their specific audience, not generic or broadYour topics need to be niched down and specialized enough that the connection is clearThe host and audience must immediately see how your expertise serves their listeners 2. Stories: What Sets You ApartStories are the differentiator in a crowded pitch landscapeThe most effective guest pitch combines compelling personal stories + valuable informationExample: Valasta (supplement company)Founder cured his cancer naturally using the ingredients in their supplementThis personal story paired with product value creates a compelling interviewResult: Business growth driven by global podcast guesting visibility 3. The Winning FormulaValue + Compelling Personal Story = Podcast Host Interest When you effectively communicate both elements, podcast hosts will actively want to interview you. Call to ActionFree Podcast Guesting MasterclassReady to learn how to turn podcast interviews into dream coaching clients? Reserve your spot now! Visit: interviewconnections.com/masterclass Topics CoveredPodcast guest positioningStanding out in a crowded pitching landscapeHow to craft a compelling guest pitchTurning podcast visibility into business growth ResourcesInterview Connections Website: interviewconnections.comFree Masterclass: interviewconnections.com/masterclassShow: https://interviewconnections.com/podcast/

What if your podcast episodes could become a book in less than 90 days, without writing a single word? In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on exactly how I'm doing that, and the tool and the woman behind it. Sheila Slick is a business leader with over 25 years of experience in education, technology, and entrepreneurship, and the author and founder of Five Milestones. She built PodToBook.ai (a software that takes your podcast episodes and transforms your spoken word into a manuscript) and I am literally one of her customers. With the Mindshare Summit coming up in September, I needed a book to bring to the booth, and I needed it fast. This is the story of how I got it done. In this episode, we cover: Why I needed a new book in under 90 days and how PodToBook.ai made it possibleHow the software works: upload your episodes, get a manuscript (Sheila spent 600+ hours building it to use only your spoken word, not generated content from the internet)Why the output is a manuscript, not a finished book and what that 20% gap looks like to closeThe step-by-step path from manuscript to published: formatting for Kindle vs. print, Amazon KDP, print-on-demand, and cover designWhy podcast hosts are increasingly saying yes to guests who have a bookWhat to do if you're not a podcaster — Sheila also offers a done-for-you interview service to get your book started from scratchHow to start with the end in mind: are you writing to get clients, land stages, or grow your audience? Resources mentioned: PodToBook.ai — upload your podcast episodes and get a manuscript fast. 5Milestones.com — done-for-you and done-with-you publishing support, from manuscript to Amazon. Connect with Sheila on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheilaslick/ A book is one of the most powerful tools a podcast guest can bring to an interview — and getting booked on the right shows is how you get that book in front of the right people. Join me at the free Podcast Guesting Masterclass to learn how to land interviews on podcasts your ideal clients are already listening to. Register here: interviewconnections.com/masterclass-2026

Episode SummaryIn this solo episode, Jessica Rhodes addresses a common question from Interview Connections clients: how often should you post about your podcast appearances? Discover the strategic reasons to post when you're booked, when you're recording, and when your episode goes live and why visibility is essential to growing your coaching business. Jessica also discusses the "upper limit problem" and why the voice in your head telling you to hold back might actually be limiting your growth and impact. Key Takeaways✅ Post at Three Strategic Moments: When you first get booked on a podcastThe day of the recording (to share the excitement)When the episode is published ✅ Visibility Attracts Opportunities One Interview Connections client, Christina L. Woods, landed a speaking opportunity at a retreat simply by posting about her podcast bookings. The retreat organizer saw her posts and reached out. ✅ Show Appreciation to Hosts By tagging and sharing about the podcast with your audience, you're creating a two-way street—not just gaining access to their audience, but also introducing your community to their show. ✅ Overcome the Upper Limit Problem That nagging voice telling you "this is too spammy" or "I'm being too much"? That's what Gay Hendricks calls the upper limit problem (your mind trying to hold you back as you expand). It's often a projection of others' insecurities, not a reflection of reality. ✅ Your Audience is Rooting for You When you share your podcast appearances with excitement and authenticity, you're not being annoying. You're sharing value. Your audience wants to see you succeed. Resources Mentioned📚 The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks A transformational read on overcoming self-imposed limits and the "upper limit problem." Perfect for entrepreneurs questioning their visibility. Call to ActionReady to learn how to turn podcast interviews into dream coaching clients? Reserve your spot in Jessica's FREE Podcast Guesting Masterclass: 🔗 Link: interviewconnections.com/masterclass

Financial Literacy for Business Owners: How to Know Your Numbers and Build a Financially Healthy Business with Dawnette Palmore If you've ever avoided looking at your bank account because you were afraid of what you'd see, this episode is for you. Dawnette Palmore, host of Your Business on Purpose and a fractional CFO and money coach with 24 years of entrepreneurial experience, joins me to talk about one of the most overlooked aspects of running a successful coaching business: actually knowing your numbers. Dawnette's origin story will feel familiar. She was making great money and still felt broke. That wake-up call sent her on a journey to understand business finances, fix her own mess, and then help other business owners do the same. Now she helps coaches and entrepreneurs go from financial chaos to clarity. In this episode, we cover: Why so many business owners have no idea what their revenue is and the surprising root causeHow your personal finance habits show up directly in your business financesThe very first step to take if you want a financially healthy business (hint: it starts with your bank statements)Profit First vs. spreadsheet tracking and why the best system is the one you'll actually useCredit cards, debit cards, and self-awareness: how to choose the right spending tools for your personalityHow to navigate taking on business debt without the shame spiralWhy Dawnette recommends bringing in a fractional CFO from day one, not just when you're making big moneyThe difference between a money coach and a fractional CFO, and which one you might need Guest Links: Free resource: Dawnette has a free Financial Literacy for Business Owners PDF download — a fillable workbook that walks you through the basics covered in this episode. Grab the PDF here: https://yourmoneyonpurpose.com/home-4419 Want to make smarter decisions about how you're growing your business through podcasting? Join me at the free Podcast Guesting Masterclass, where I walk you through exactly how coaches and thought leaders use podcast guesting to build authority, reach new audiences, and attract clients. Register here: interviewconnections.com/masterclass-2026

Episode SummaryJessica Rhodes walks you through her complete preparation framework for recording podcast interviews at your best. Learn how to schedule strategically, research effectively, and optimize your technical setup so you can show up present, authentic, and ready to create meaningful connections with hosts and their audiences. This episode covers everything from calendar management to lighting and sound checks. Key Takeaways1. Schedule Interviews StrategicallyDon't scatter podcast interviews throughout a day filled with other meetings and client calls. Instead, batch schedule your interviews on dedicated podcast days. This keeps you in "podcast mode" and prevents energy drain from context-switching between coaching calls, team meetings, sales calls, and other activities. When your brain is focused on one type of work, your performance and energy are both optimized. 2. Research the Host & ShowBefore hitting record, do your homework: Listen to one or two episodes of their showRead the host's bioUnderstand their ideal clientLearn about the services they provide This preparation helps you connect authentically with the host and deliver stories and insights that resonate with their audience. 3. Physical & Environmental Prep✅ Go to the bathroom beforehand ✅ Drink plenty of water ✅ Close all doors to reduce background noise ✅ Turn off all notifications ✅ Restart your computer before recording ✅ Close unnecessary applications and browser tabs to maximize bandwidth and strengthen your Wi-Fi connection 4. Technical SetupLighting: Use a ring light or photography light for even, professional-looking lightingMicrophone: Use an external microphone (don't rely on built-in audio)Sound Check: Verify your audio settings on Zoom or Riverside before startingHeadphones/Earbuds: Wear them to reduce echo and improve audio qualityPlatform: Double-check your recording platform's audio settings 5. Mindset & Presence✅ Take deep breaths before you start ✅ Be mindful and present ✅ Be yourself. You don't need to be scripted ✅ Have fun and enjoy the conversation ✅ Remember: This is your opportunity to connect authentically The Full Preparation ChecklistBatch schedule interviews on a dedicated podcast dayListen to 1-2 episodes of the showResearch the host's bio and servicesIdentify their ideal clientUse the bathroom beforehandHydrate wellClose all doors and turn off notificationsRestart your computerClose unnecessary apps and browser tabsTest your lighting setupUse an external microphoneCheck audio settings on your recording platformPut on headphones/earbudsTake deep breaths and ground yourselfLock in and be present Why This MattersGoing into podcast interviews well prepared is key to: Performing at your bestCreating genuine connections with hostsSharing compelling stories that resonateGetting into the zone where authentic conversation flows naturally Call to ActionReady to learn how to turn podcast interviews into dream coaching clients? Reserve your spot in Jess's FREE Podcast Guesting Masterclass: 🔗 Link: interviewconnections.com/masterclass

Most business owners are making decisions every day but how many of those decisions are actually built to last? Dawn K. Kennedy, author of Before You Decide: The Field Manual for Durable Decisions Under Pressure, joins me on the Interview Connections podcast to talk about why so many businesses fail not because of a bad idea, but because of how decisions get made (or avoided) along the way. Dawn brings a uniquely grounded perspective to this conversation. She's a business law attorney, a former Army Capabilities Developer and Fortune 500 Intelligence Analyst, and the co-owner of a family coffee roastery, giving her real skin in the game across both service-based and product-based businesses. Her book is not a fluffy entrepreneur read. It's a field manual, and it shows. In this episode, we cover: Why the 50% business failure rate at five years hasn't moved since the 1980s and what's actually behind itThe difference between micro-decisions you make on autopilot and high-stakes decisions that require deliberate thoughtHow our hardwiring for certainty pushes us to make decisions before we're readyWhy "move fast, break things" works for VC-funded startups but can quietly destroy a small businessThe pendulum problem: how market shifts catch business owners off guard, and what to do when the strategy that was working stops workingWhy second and third-time business owners succeed at much higher rates and what first-timers can learn from thatThe real cost of "bootstrapping" that nobody talks aboutWhy we pick the decision that relieves pressure instead of the one that keeps us moving forward Resources mentioned: Before You Decide: The Field Manual for Durable Decisions Under Pressure by Dawn K. Kennedy — available on Amazon now. Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara — recommended by Dawn as a companion read on staying true to your original purpose as a business evolves. Free resources and guidebooks available at DawnKKennedy.com. Want to make smarter decisions about how you're growing your business through podcasting? Join me at the free Podcast Guesting Masterclass, where I walk you through exactly how coaches and thought leaders use podcast guesting to build authority, reach new audiences, and attract clients. Register here: interviewconnections.com/masterclass-2026

Episode OverviewJessica Rhodes takes a firm stance: Do NOT use AI podcast pitching software. As the founder of Interview Connections (the first-ever podcast booking agency), she shares why this trend is damaging to your reputation and why it doesn't work—no matter how cheap or fast it seems. Key Stat: Interview Connections has booked over 50,000 podcast interviews and helped thousands of coaches and experts land more dream clients. Jessica's Background & Authority (0:02 - 0:15)Founded Interview Connections in 2013 to be a stay-at-home momCreated the first-ever podcast booking service to marketHad zero competition for roughly two years13+ years in the podcast booking industry gives her unique perspective on trends and what actually works The Problem: AI Podcast Pitching Platforms are Exploding (0:15 - 0:45)What's happening: AI-generated podcast pitching platforms are popping up everywhereThey advertise heavily on Instagram and Facebook with AI-generated videosJessica's reaction: "It literally makes me gag"They promise cheap, fast solutions to getting booked on podcasts Why this matters: Jessica sees this as a major red flag for the podcast guesting industryWhile AI has some good uses, this particular application is problematic Where Jessica DOES Use AI (0:45 - 1:00)To be clear, Jessica isn't anti-AI across the board. She currently uses AI tools for: Opus Pro – AI video editing platform to create clips from her podcast appearancesClaude and ChatGPT – For various business questions and tasks However: There's one place she draws the line... Where She WILL NOT Use AI (1:00 - 1:20)Never: Using AI to replace the establishment of new relationships When you use AI to pitch a podcast host, you're essentially saying: "I would rather use a robot to start a relationship than a real human." This is not a good strategy. Real-World Evidence: Why AI Pitching Doesn't Work (1:20 - 2:00)Direct outreach she's receiving: AI podcast pitching companies are messaging Jessica on LinkedIn wanting to networkSomeone recently messaged her looking to hire someone to run their AI pitching companyHer response: "Get lost. No thank you. Hard pass." Why hosts reject AI pitches: Podcast hosts HATE being pitched by AIAI-generated templates are full of mistakesIt comes across as "slop"Hosts recognize immediately that you prioritized saving money over building real relationships The entrepreneur experience: Jessica has talked to plenty of coaches and entrepreneurs who tried AI pitching softwareWhy they tried it: The ads are compelling ("It's cheap! It's fast!")Why it failed: The quality isn't there, and it damages your reputation The Real Cost of "Cheap and Fast" (2:00 - 2:15)Jessica's warning: You get what you pay for. When podcast hosts receive an AI-generated pitch: They know you chose cheap over investing in relationshipsThey know you'd rather automate than build genuine connectionThey see it as disrespectful to their time and show This is NOT an expense to cut costs on. Doing so risks ruining your reputation in the podcasting space. The Solution: Real Investment (2:15 - 2:25)Instead of AI pitching software, Jessica recommends: ✅ Invest in a team or agency that already has existing relationships with hosts ✅ Build real relationships with podcast hosts over time ✅ View podcast pitching as a relationship-building strategy, not a transaction Key Takeaways🎯 AI podcast pitching software doesn't work – The quality is poor and hosts hate it 🎯 It damages your reputation – Hosts see right through automation and cheap shortcuts 🎯 Relationship building can't be automated – This is where AI fails hardest 🎯 You get what you pay for – Cheap pitching ≠ podcast bookings 🎯 Use an agency with existing relationships – This is worth the investment 🎯 AI has a place in your business – Just not in replacing human connection Jessica's Passionate Take"You would rather be cheap and save a buck than invest in real relationships. Invest in a team or in an agency that already has an existing relationship. This is not an expense to cut costs in and risk ruining your reputation." Call to ActionReady to get booked on podcasts the RIGHT way? Reserve your spot in Jessica's FREE Podcast Guesting Masterclass Link: interviewconnections.com/masterclassLearn how to pitch authentically and get real resultsBuild relationships that actually convert to dream clients Resources MentionedInterview Connections: interviewconnections.comPodcast Guesting Masterclass: interviewconnections.com/masterclassTools Jessica uses: Opus Pro (video editing) (Affiliate link), Claude, ChatGPT Bottom LineShould you use AI podcast pitching software? No. The answer is no.

Episode OverviewOn this episode of the Interview Connections podcast, Jess Rhodes sits down with Caroline Shelby, founder of Grief Clarity Labs and author of Living Beside the Leaving, to explore the profound and often misunderstood experience of anticipatory grief. Caroline shares her deeply personal journey of caring for her mother through a decade of Alzheimer's disease, discovering grief coaching through an unexpected TikTok video, and ultimately transforming her pain into a calling to help others navigate loss. This is a conversation about loss that is also full of laughter, hope, and the realization that joy and sadness can coexist. Key TakeawaysAnticipatory Grief Is Its Own Experience — The grief that begins before a loss actually happens—when you know someone is going to die but they haven't yet—is uniquely complicated. Caroline spent 10 years watching her mother disappear while still being present, experiencing guilt, exhaustion, and conflicting emotions that support groups at the time rarely addressed. You Can Be a Safe Stranger — During Alzheimer's progression, Caroline's mother eventually forgot who she was. But Caroline learned to show up as a comforting, secure presence anyway—absorbing the emotional weight while still providing care and compassion. The "Grief in a Box" Metaphor — When grief first hits, the pain ball bounces constantly against the button in a small box. But as life expands and you heal, the box grows bigger. The ball still hits the button sometimes, but there's room for life to happen around the grief. You don't have to let loss define your entire existence. Grief Coaching Isn't About Timelines — There's no "right time" to work with a grief coach. The readiness comes when you start wondering if life could look different, when you begin to envision something beyond the loss. Some people are ready in a month; others need a year or more. Writing as Authority and Healing Can Be the Same Thing — Caroline wrote her book to build authority as a new coach, but it became a profound healing tool. However, she's careful to recommend that clients write only when they're truly ready—not as a forced exercise, but when the time feels right. Happiness and Sadness Can Coexist — One of Caroline's core messages is that you don't have to choose between grief and joy. Life after loss isn't about "getting over it"—it's about expanding your life so grief becomes one part of your story, not the whole story. Timestamps & Topics14:44 — Episode intro and Caroline's background15:37-17:52 — Caroline's origin story: caring for her mother through Alzheimer's and discovering grief coaching through TikTok18:12-23:05 — Writing her book Living Beside the Leaving as both authority-building and healing24:45-26:39 — The "grief in a box" metaphor and expanding life around loss27:19-28:17 — When the right time is to work with a grief coach29:04-29:57 — Call to action and how to connect with Caroline30:19-30:55 — Episode wrap-up About Caroline ShelbyCaroline Shelby is a grief educator, certified grief coach, and founder of Grief Clarity Labs. She specializes in supporting individuals navigating caregiving, anticipatory grief, and life after loss. Her work is rooted in personal experience: she spent more than a decade caring for her mother through Alzheimer's disease and lost both her mother and best friend in 2024. She is the author of Living Beside the Leaving: A Daughter's Story of Alzheimer's, Caregiving, and Loss (published May 2024). Through her coaching, writing, and authentic storytelling, Caroline creates space for honest, often unspoken conversations around grief and helps people feel less alone and better equipped to navigate loss. Guest LinksWebsite: https://www.griefclaritylabs.comFree Clarity Call: https://www.griefclaritylabs.com/callBook: Living Beside the Leaving by Caroline Shelby (Amazon)