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Thrive By Design: Business and Marketing Strategy for Fashion, Jewelry and Creative Brands

I’m your host, Tracy Matthews, Chief Visionary Officer of Flourish & Thrive Academy. After 20+ years in the jewelry industry, I believe you deserve to make money doing what you love, without spending every waking minute doing it. I’ve built two jewelry businesses: one that totally flopped after years of stress and burnout, and then one that I built around MY desired lifestyle, which is still thriving to this day. Both were fueled by equal passion and dedication. The only difference is that I realized your business should be built around your lifestyle, not the other way around. I founded Flourish & Thrive Academy because it’s my mission to help independent jewelry designers and handmade product makers like you build a business that THRIVES in today’s market and aligns with what YOU want. Every week, I’m dedicated to demystifying the secrets of the jewelry industry and teaching you tips and strategies that are working now, so you don’t have to learn the hard way, like I did. My Desired Brand Effect Methodology has helped thousands of jewelry designers and makers build and scale businesses that create financial freedom in their lives. Building a business is a marathon, not a sprint, and you don’t have to do it alone. I’m so happy to be on this journey with you. You can subscribe to the show here and watch every episode on YouTube here. Follow us on Instagram @flourish_thrive or slide into my DMs @tracymatthewsny. Visit flourishthriveacademy.com to learn more about our mission and our high-level coaching programs for dedicated business owners, Laying The Foundation and Momentum. And if you want to learn more about The Desired Brand Effect, I wrote a whole book about it! Read the first chapter for free here. Welcome to the #ThriveTribe, m’dear. I’m always dropping new resources, masterclasses, and opportunities for independent makers, so stay tuned!
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Thrive By Design: Business and Marketing Strategy for Fashion, Jewelry and Creative Brands
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Now displaying: June, 2023
Jun 27, 2023

Ready to leverage the power of social media platforms like Instagram to supercharge your email list growth? Don't worry, I won't leave you hanging if Instagram isn't your cup of tea—I've got a couple of other ideas up my sleeve too!

Imagine the possibilities... social media has the incredible ability to connect you with people you might never have crossed paths with otherwise. It's like having a backstage pass to reach a whole new audience, and that's exactly what we're going to dive into today.

So, whether you're a social media pro or just dipping your toes into the digital world, Episode 416 of the Thrive by Design podcast has got you covered. 

We're going to explore 11 easy-to-implement strategies that won't cost you a dime but will deliver maximum results. Get ready to grow your email list using the power of social media without breaking the bank!

The Power of Email for Growing your Jewelry Business

Email can be a game-changer for growing your jewelry business. Here's the deal: when it comes to using social media to build your email list, engaging content is the name of the game. Gone are the days of posting a random image with a vague description and then disappearing into the digital abyss. It's time to get strategic and think about your social media presence in terms of growing that coveted email list.

In Podcast Episode 416 You’ll Learn 11 FREE Strategies to Build Your List with Social, like:

  • Using strong calls to action in your bio or profile

  • Offering exclusive discounts, contests and giveaways

  • Using links in Instagram stories

  • Creating quizzes to engage and gather email addresses

  • Collaborating with influencers

  • Cross-promoting with parallel brands

  • Inviting new followers to your list

  • And so much more!

With the 11 strategies and email best practices that I share in this episode, your list will continue to grow and serve as a powerful tool for your jewelry business. 

So, keep asking for subscribers, keep engaging, and watch your relationships and sales flourish!

 

Here are the resources mentioned in the show:

Email List Building Guide

Summer Reading List

Alex Camacho

Meghan Boehm

Buy My Book: The Desired Brand Effect

 

Jun 22, 2023

Are you tired of the nine-to-five grind? Do you yearn for the freedom and fulfillment that comes with running your own business? If you've ever considered quitting your day job to pursue your jewelry business full time, then you're in for a treat. 

In Episode 415 of the Thrive by Design podcast I’m interviewing Amy Porterfield, an ex-corporate girl turned online marketing expert, author of the New York Times bestselling book Two Weeks Notice, and CEO of a multimillion-dollar business. 

In her new book, Two Weeks Notice Amy shares her journey from the corporate world to building a multimillion-dollar business. It’s an inspiring story with a fresh perspective on transitioning from a “job” into entrepreneurship.

Leaving Your 9-5 Job Takes Courage More Than Confidence

Leaving the security of a nine-to-five job can be daunting, but Amy advises relying on courage rather than waiting for confidence to kick in. Confidence comes with experience eventually, but you may not have that at first. So intead take the leap of faith and trust in your abilities. 

Building Your Runway is Part of Your Exit Plan

Transitioning from your 9-5 day job to entrepreneurship will go more smoothly with some planning. Amy shared her three-step runway approach to help you leave your day job with integrity and confidence:

  1. Choose your exit date: Write down the specific date you plan to leave your job. Display it prominently where you’ll see it. Then each day, ask yourself what actions you can take to move you closer to leaving.

  2. Prepare Financially: Examine your finances, identify ways to cut expenses, and start building a nest egg. It doesn’t have to be huge, but some financial security will ease the transition and provide peace of mind.

  3. Start a side hustle: Develop a starter idea or project that allows you to dip your toes into entrepreneurship while still working your day job. This will build your confidence and help you gain valuable experience before taking the plunge.

The Power of Clarity Around Your Dream Client 

Amy emphasizes that finding your niche doesn't exclude others who may benefit from your offerings; instead, it helps you cut through the noise in the crowded online marketplace and attract the right people who resonate with your message.

Embracing Your Freedom 

The worst days as an entrepreneur are still better than the best days in a nine-to-five job because of the freedom and autonomy it brings. Being your own boss allows you to design your life according to your dreams and values. 

If you've been considering quitting your nine-to-five job to focus on building and growing your jewelry business, you’ll love this episode.

Have a listen, take the leap, and start creating the life you've always envisioned!

Here are the resources mentioned in the show:

Follow Amy Porterfield on Instagram!

Two Weeks Notice Book

An Inside Look at a 7-Figure Jewelry Brand - On Demand Masterclass

Are you enjoying the podcast? We’d be so grateful if you gave us a rating and review! Your 5 star ratings help us reach more businesses like yours and allows us to continue to deliver valuable content every single week. 

  1. Click here to review the show on Apple podcast or your favorite platform

  2. Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”

  3. Share your favorite insights and inspirations

 

If you haven’t done so yet, make sure that you subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and on Apple Podcast for special bonus content you won’t get elsewhere.

 

xo, Tracy Matthews

 

Follow on Instagram:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flourish_thrive/

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY  Instagram - http://instragram.com/tracymatthewsny

Follow Flourish & Thrive Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FlourishThriveAcademy

 

Follow us on Tik Tok:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@flourish_thrive

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY on Tik Tok - https://www.tiktok.com/@tracymatthewsny

 

Jun 15, 2023

Growing up in a dysfunctional environment with an alcoholic mother, ADHD, drug abuse, foster care, and prison, best-selling author of Buy Back Your Time, Dan Martell, has an incredible and inspirational story not to be missed. 

Despite feeling broken, Dan’s life took a positive turn when a prison guard named Brian expressed belief in him… 

“I don’t know what you’re doing here, man; you don’t belong here,” Brian said.

This sparked a tiny seed of self-worth and eventually led Dan to a rehab center called Portage, where he rebuilt relationships, overcame addiction, and built and sold several multi-million dollar software companies.

Be The Best Version of Yourself and Share Your Stories With the World

Dan’s own story includes failures and setbacks but also mentors who provided guidance and support. It hasn’t been all success every step of the way. Dan started several businesses, faced several failures, and licked his wounds before achieving success. 

In Podcast Episode 414, Dan shares…

  • His approach to time management and focusing on essential business tasks. 

  • The importance of embracing vulnerability and leveraging our stories to serve others. 

  • How delegation plays a crucial role in freeing up time and achieving success. 

  • The 10-80-10 rule, where you provide initial creative input (10%), delegate the bulk of the work (80%), and add final touches (10%)

  • How you can produce exceptional results in business when you utilize the skills of others and focus on your strengths.

  • How he uses the principles he writes about in his book to create more space for travel and adventure with his family.

  • And so much more!

Focus on What Truly Matters

Dan’s purpose for writing Buy Back Your Time was to empower entrepreneurs to create more, delegate effectively, and lead with passion and a focus on what truly matters in life

Dan’s journey is one of the most impactful and powerful stories you’ll ever read. 

I hope you enjoy this amazing episode!

 

Here are the resources mentioned in the show:

Dan Martell on Instagram

Buy Back Your Time Book

Flourish & Thrive’s Summer Reading List

Buy My Book: The Desired Brand Effect



Are you enjoying the podcast? We’d be so grateful if you gave us a rating and review! Your 5 star ratings help us reach more businesses like yours and allows us to continue to deliver valuable content every single week. 

 

  1. Click here to review the show on Apple podcast or your favorite platform

  2. Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”

  3. Share your favorite insights and inspirations

 

If you haven’t done so yet, make sure that you subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and on Apple Podcast for special bonus content you won’t get elsewhere.

 

xo, Tracy Matthews

 

Follow on Instagram:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive on Instagram

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY  Instagram

Follow Flourish & Thrive Facebook

 

Follow us on Tik Tok:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive Tik Tok

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY on Tik Tok

 

Jun 13, 2023

Can you feel that? 

 

It's the warm embrace of summer wrapping around us, bringing with it a welcome slowdown for most jewelry business owners, unless you're one of the amazing souls bustling away at art shows and festivals. 

 

High-fives if that’s you!

 

Either way, now's the perfect time to kick back, relax, and dive into some captivating summer reads before the holiday season rolls around.

 

In Podcast Episode 413, I’m sharing my thoughtfully curated summer reading list to inspire and rejuvenate you. 

 

You’ll learn what’s inside these amazing books and why I recommend (and love) them for you this summer…

 

  • Tough Titties by Laura Belgray - Laura’s hilarious memoir is a coming-of-age story that explores the idea of living your best life even when you feel like the effing worst. 

  • Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell - Dan dives deep into the importance of focusing on high-leveraged tasks and efficiently delegating the rest to avoid burnout. 

  • Two Weeks Notice by Amy Porterfield - Amy’s step-by-step guide empowers you to find the courage to quit your job, make more money, work where you want, and change the world. 

  • The Desired Brand Effect by Tracy Matthews - Based on the Desired Brand Effect methodology it’s specifically written for jewelry business owners who are eager to grow and scale their companies successfully. 

  • Cash Confident by Melissa Houston - Melissa unveils the core pillars every small business owner needs to pay attention to, emphasizing the importance of keeping a close eye on your numbers. 

 

I hope you grab one or all of the books on my recommended summer reading list. Prepare to feel inspired and to tackle every business hurdle that comes your way this season and beyond. 

 

Here are the resources mentioned in the show:

 

Desired Brand Effect Book: https://desiredbrandeffect.com/

 

Tough Titties Book: https://www.talkingshrimp.com/book

Buy Back Your Time Book: https://www.amazon.com/Buy-Back-Your-Time-Unstuck/dp/059342297X

Two Weeks Notice Book: https://www.amazon.com/Two-Weeks-Notice-Courage-Change/dp/1401969879

Cash Confident Book: https://www.amazon.com/Cash-Confident-Entrepreneurs-Creating-Profitable/dp/1637586361

 

On demand masterclass: An Inside Look at a 7-Figure Jewelry Brand: https://www.flourishthriveacademy.com/7figures


Are you enjoying the podcast? We’d be so grateful if you gave us a rating and review! Your 5 star ratings help us reach more businesses like yours and allows us to continue to deliver valuable content every single week.

 

  1. Click here to review the show https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thrive-by-design-business-marketing-strategy-for-fashion/id1050430716
  2. Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”
  3. Share your favorite insights and inspirations

 

Find us on your favorite social channels:

Follow on Instagram: https://instagram.com/tracymatthewsny

Follow Tracy on Instagram: https://instagram.com/Flourish_Thrive

Follow us on Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flourish_thrive

Follow Tracy on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tracymatthewsny 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlourishThriveAcademy

Jun 8, 2023

Meet Your New Favorite Summer Read – Tough Titties by Laura Belgray

If you don’t already know Laura (ummm…hello?), then you should! She's an amazing copywriter, writer, and master storyteller, and she’s flippin’ hilarious. 

Laura has been a dear friend of mine for six or seven years and has been on the Thrive by Design podcast before, but today is extra special because she’s treating us to an inside look at her new book, Tough Titties, which releases on June 13th!

Tough Titties Author Laura Belgray is a Gifted Storyteller 

Laura has an innate ability to share real-life stories in a way that makes us feel connected and tucked inside her world, not just an outside observer. She finds humor in everyday moments, which she skillfully crafts into easy-to-consume stories that are engaging and entertaining. This is her true gift.

In EP412: Meet Your New Favorite Summer Read – Tough Titties by Laura Belgray, Laura dished about…

  • Searching for book themes like the late-bloomer theme and the not-doing-life-the-way you're-supposed-to theme and the coming-of-age-as-a-dork-in-New-York theme

  • Her favorite chapters in Tough Titties including, “He’s Never Going to Leave Her” about her lying, cheating narcissistic pathological married salsa instructor, or the titular chapter about her late-blooming-B-turned-DD-cup boobs 

  • How she met her husband Steven, who cooks cleans and decorates (and yeah, he's straight)

  • Why her stubbornness cost her a multi-6 figure book deal, but allowed her to write the book she wanted to write

  • And so much more!

Why Tough Titties is the Best Summer Read of 2023

The writing is incredibly compelling, and there’s an arc to it. Laura’s storytelling mastery captures your attention, so you can’t wait to see where’s it going or what’s going to happen, “Is she going to find her thing? Is she ever going to find love or grow up to become an actual adult? And the spoiler? Not really.” 

Even though Tough Titties is not a self-help book, it does insight some wisdom and inspiration. “I think if you've ever felt behind in your life for your career, it's going to make you feel a lot better. If you feel like you could use a little permission to be more of yourself. It will give you that.”

 

Here are the resources mentioned in the show:

Order Tough Titties and Bonuses!

Follow Laura Belgray on Instagram!

 

Are you enjoying the podcast? We’d be so grateful if you gave us a rating and review! Your 5 star ratings help us reach more businesses like yours and allows us to continue to deliver valuable content every single week. 

 

  1. Click here to review the show on Apple podcast or your favorite platform

  1. Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”

  1. Share your favorite insights and inspirations

 

If you haven’t done so yet, make sure that you subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and on Apple Podcast for special bonus content you won’t get elsewhere.

 

xo, Tracy Matthews

 

Follow on Instagram:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive on Instagram

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY  Instagram

Follow Flourish & Thrive Facebook

 

Follow us on Tik Tok:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive Tik Tok

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY on Tik Tok

 

Jun 1, 2023

One of the reasons jewelry business founders feel frustrated during a slow season is that they're focused on a lack of sales instead of shifting their focus to how they can make the most of the slow summer months to grow their businesses. 

In Podcast Episode 411, I'll share 5 tips to maximize your slower months for greater impact and efficiency in your business...

  1. Catch up on learning: Revisit courses, join a new program like Momentum or Laying the Foundation, binge your favorite podcasts, and catch up on business books. 

  2. Work on those big projects: Develop systems, create your production manual, hire a marketing VA or automate processes to streamline your operations.

  3. Work on your marketing: Optimize your email sequences, switch to a new email service provider or CRM if needed, and design a new lead magnet pdf or quiz

  4. Prepare for the holiday season: Design a new collection, create inventory for the holidays, and map out your plans for in-person shows and special promotions 

  5. Take a well-deserved break: Take a staycation, work on your mindset, and recharge your energy to avoid burnout and stay motivated for the busy holiday season.

The best course of action for the slow summer months, or whenever business is slow for you, is to take action with intention. Sitting and stressing is not the best use of your time. 

So instead, listen to Episode #411 and catch up on learning, work on important projects, plan your marketing, prepare for the holidays, and take a break. These actions will set you up for success and growth in your business.

Here are the resources mentioned in the show:

Book a Discovery Call to learn about our Momentum Program

Learn more about Laying the Foundation

Buy My Book: The Desired Brand Effect

Are you enjoying the podcast? We’d be so grateful if you gave us a rating and review! Your 5 star ratings help us reach more businesses like yours and allows us to continue to deliver valuable content every single week. 

  1. Click here to review the show on Apple podcast or your favorite platform

  2. Select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”

  3. Share your favorite insights and inspirations

If you haven’t done so yet, make sure that you subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts and on Apple Podcast for special bonus content you won’t get elsewhere.

 

xo, Tracy Matthews

 

Follow on Instagram:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive on Instagram

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY  Instagram

Follow Flourish & Thrive Facebook

 

Follow us on Tik Tok:

Follow @Flourish_Thrive Tik Tok

Follow @TracyMatthewsNY on Tik Tok

 

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