Podcast Answer Man

The Real Definition of a Podcast Podcasting has been around for more than two decades. You would think the definition would be settled by now. Yet here we are in 2025, and people are still confidently giving advice in large Facebook groups while misunderstanding what actually makes a podcast a podcast. In this episode, I walk you through a recent thread inside a group, devoted to the topic of podcasting, with more than 103,000 members. Someone asked a simple question about whether video is required for podcasting. I explain how after reading the answers that followed, I felt compelled to jump in. I also share the exact comments I made, along with the misinformation that prompted them. You’ll hear the real definition of a podcast. Not the internet myth. The accurate definition that has been true since the beginning. A podcast is episodic media content (Audio, Video, and/or Even PDF) that is delivered through a media enclosure in an RSS feed. That is the foundation this entire industry was built on. I also talk about why this matters. When tens of thousands of newer creators are watching these conversations, I want them to understand the medium they are working with. I want them to know why audio only is still a powerful choice. I want them to see that video can play a role, but it isn’t required. And I want them to understand the technical heart of podcasting so they can make informed decisions rather than follow trends. Inside this episode, you’ll hear: Why the debate about “audio only” versus “video podcasts” keeps resurfacing. How misinformation spreads inside creator communities. The real, technical definition of a podcast. When video files can, in fact, can be a podcast. Why audio first is still my personal preference. A mention of two podcast episodes from 2024 where I have shared thoughts on the role of video in your content strategy. A reminder that Podcasting A to Z is officially back for a new session starting January 26. Links Mentioned In The Show Episode 469 - Is It Worth Having A Video Version of Your Audio Podcast? Episode 473 - The Magic of Audio First Content Production You can submit them through SpeakPipe - http://speakpipe.com/podcastanswerman Podcasting A to Z If you are ready to launch a podcast with clarity, confidence, and a proven step-by-step workflow, my next session of Podcasting A to Z begins soon. I will personally coach you through every stage of the process so your show is live by the end of our four weeks together. Register today at PodcastingAtoZ.com

After several years focused on business strategy and mindset coaching, I am stepping back into the role that shaped two decades of my work. Podcast Answer Man is officially back. This episode marks the beginning of a new chapter that honors my roots while embracing everything I have learned since. Inside this episode, I answer thirteen of the most common questions I’ve received about the Zoom PodTrak P4next. This tiny device has quickly become my favorite portable podcast studio, and today I walk you through what it can do, why it matters, and how it compares to the gear many of you already own. I also share a deeply meaningful update about my friend and mentor, Dan Miller. His impact on my life and on this community is immeasurable, and I am honored to tell you how he is being recognized on the podcast industry’s biggest stage. And near the end, I explain why now is the perfect time for me to return to Podcast Answer Man and what that means for the content I will be creating moving forward. Links Mentioned PodTrak P4next Amazon Affiliate Link Episode 474: My first impressions of the P4next Video walkthrough of the P4next on YouTube Podfest Expo Registration Link (Use Promo Code PAM for 10% off) My Keynote from Free the Dream: MindsetAnswerMan.com/free Connect If you are attending Podfest Expo, email me at [email protected] and let me know. I would love to meet you in person. Podcasting A to Z Podcasting A to Z is returning one week after I get back from Podfest Expo. This four-week program is the most comprehensive podcast training experience that has ever been available. Nearly 700 students have gone through it with me as their personal coach, and many of them credit this course as the reason they launched with clarity, confidence, and long-term momentum. For four weeks, you get direct access to me. No limits on your questions. No limits on the support you can ask for. If something is confusing, I will walk you through it. If you need strategy, gear advice, workflow help, or technical direction, I will guide you step by step. If you’re launching a podcast or you want to take your existing show to a higher level, this is the place to do it. I would love to work with you and help you build something you are proud to share. Learn more at PodcastingAtoZ.com . Closing Thought Thank you for being here for this chapter of the journey. I am grateful to be back behind the mic, and I cannot wait to serve you at the highest level in the years ahead.

In this episode I return to my Podcast Answer Man roots and share an in-depth review of my newest and most unexpected favorite piece of podcast gear. The Zoom PodTrak P4next! This tiny device delivers almost everything I rely on from the Rodecaster Pro 2 at a fraction of the size and a fraction of the cost, coming in at only $179. I'll walk you through how I discovered it, my initial skepticism, and why seeing the Zoom name made me give it a chance. I'm so glad I did. I'll share what the Zoom PodTrak P4next does, how I'm using it, why it has already earned a permanent place in my travel setup, and why I might even replace my Rodecaster Pro 2 in the studio. I recorded this episode from the front seat of my car to demonstrate how powerful this device is for portable recording. You'll hear the quality of the preamps and the impressive noise reduction capabilities in action. I talk about the power options, multitrack capability, four XLR inputs, mix-minus support, sound pads, four independently controlled headphone outputs, built in audio recorder and more. I also share the story of why this little recorder solves technical problems I have carried for years. If you have been looking for a reliable way to record multiple microphones on the road, or if you want to build a complete podcast studio that fits in a backpack, this episode will show you how simple, and inexpensive, it can be. Portable Gear Recommendations Many listeners and viewers ask for my current recommendations for a complete portable recording setup. Here's the list with affiliate links. Primary Device Zoom PodTrak P4next - https://amzn.to/4rA85fY Microphone Options Heil PR-40 - https://amzn.to/4iofavZ If you want something more portable, my long-time favorite was the Audio Technica ATR-2100. It is no longer manufactured, so my best current guess for a quality budget dynamic mic is the Rode PodMic Cardioid Dynamic Broadcast Microphone found at https://amzn.to/4rgUIBf Cables Three foot XLR mic cables - https://amzn.to/43UbqMC Stands Portable mic stand options - https://amzn.to/3MmDMJf Headphones Sony MDR-7506 - https://amzn.to/3M0apwo Replacement ear pads for the MDR-7506 - https://amzn.to/3M0gj0z Closing Thought If this episode inspires you to pick up the Zoom PodTrak P4next, I would love to hear about it. Send me an email and let me know how this episode inspired you. My email is [email protected] .

In this episode, I speak about the enduring power and benefits of audio-first content creation, specifically podcasting. Even as the media landscape continues to evolve, I firmly believe that audio podcasting remains a highly valuable and underutilized strategy for building your message, business, and influence. I share my own extensive experience in the podcasting world, having launched over 50 of my own shows and published more than 4,800 episodes over the past 19 years. I also reflect on my role as the "Podcast Answer Man," helping over 40,000 people successfully launch their own audio podcasts. Throughout the episode, I highlight the 6 key benefits that audio podcasting offers, which include: A smaller "haystack" for content discovery compared to other platforms The ubiquity of smartphones and the convenience of audio consumption The captive audience that audio content can command The ease of connecting with experts and mentors The ability to build rapport and trust over time, even while you sleep The greater influence that comes from dedicated, binge-listening audiences I also address the impact of platforms like Clubhouse and short-form video, acknowledging the shifts in attention, but emphasizing the enduring value of consistent, high-quality audio content. Ultimately, I make a strong case for the power of audio-first content creation and encourage listeners to consider implementing this strategy as a means of elevating their message and business. I invite you to reach out to me directly if you're interested in exploring opportunities to work together on your entrepreneurial journey. My email address is [email protected]

In this episode, I'm thrilled to share a proven method for quickly and effectively outlining presentations, talks, webinars, or any form of communication. At the core of this approach are nine focusing questions I learned from my public speaking mentor. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just starting out, this episode will equip you with the tools to create clear, impactful presentations on the fly. So, let's dive in and transform the way you prepare for your next speaking engagement! Overview of the Nine Focusing Questions Cliff explains each of the nine questions, using examples to clarify their purpose: Who is the Target Audience? Identifying the specific audience helps tailor the talk to their needs. Is the Talk Persuasive or Enabling? Determines if the goal is to persuade or to enable by teaching steps. What is the Objective of the Talk? Focuses on the main purpose of the talk (e.g., enabling people to outline a presentation quickly). What Keyword Will I Use? Using a consistent keyword, like “questions,” provides a thematic anchor. What is the Pregnant Sentence? A single, clear sentence summarizing the talk's purpose to ensure clarity. What are the Rationales? The main points or reasons supporting the objective, forming the talk’s structure. What Resources Support Your Rationales? Examples, anecdotes, research, or visuals that reinforce key points. How Will You Open and Transition into the Talk? I discuss different engaging opening techniques, like storytelling or painting a vivid picture. How Will You Transition and Close the Talk? Strategies for impactful closing, including restating objectives or linking back to the opening. Links Mentioned In This Episode Link to the Next Level Mastermind Sales Page Ken Davis's book "Secrets of Dynamic Communication." The SCOORE Speaker Training is now available as an Online Course Opportunities to Work with Me If you’re ready to take your personal and professional growth to new heights, I’d love to support you on that journey. Here are some ways we can work together: 1. Join the Next Level Mastermind Imagine being part of a group of entrepreneurs who are all dedicated to pushing boundaries and achieving more. The Next Level Mastermind is a place where entrepreneurs like yourself come together to get real, focused, and supported. In this group, we meet every week to dive deep into our biggest challenges, celebrate wins, and gain powerful insights. You'll be surrounded by peers who truly understand the entrepreneurial journey—people who face the same unique challenges and make the tough decisions that come with building a business. This group gets what it's like to be where you are. Whether it's business strategy, personal growth, or just a fresh perspective, the Next Level Mastermind is here to support you. Curious to learn more? Visit NextLevelMastermind.info and secure your spot. 2. Free Course and Complimentary Coaching Sessions for Aspiring Entrepreneurs If you’re an aspiring or early-stage entrepreneur who hasn’t quite hit $10,000 in monthly revenue yet, I’ve designed a program just for you. My Building an Online Business course, packed with actionable steps, has helped countless entrepreneurs start strong. And the best part? You can access this course for free. Upon completing the course, you’ll be invited to join two complimentary sessions in my Next Level Coaching Program, where I’m here to answer any questions, tackle obstacles, and share insights that help you grow faster. Simply email me at [email protected] with "Next Level Coaching Program" in the subject line to get started. 3. Exclusive Workshop for Entrepreneurial Couples This December, Stephanie and I are thrilled to host an intimate workshop specifically for entrepreneurial couples committed to building a life and business together. If you and your spouse are aligned on growing a business or simply want to be, this event is for you. Whether you’re working on the same business or supporting each other from different niches, we’ll work on strategies that elevate your business approach and strengthen your marriage. We’re limiting this event to just five couples, creating an environment where everyone can feel supported and connected. This is a rare opportunity to spend time with us in a small, focused setting to build a thriving, successful partnership. To learn more, email [email protected] with "December Couples Workshop" in the subject line.

In this episode, I reveal the complete 11-step formula I recommend for building an online business. This valuable content—which people have paid thousands of dollars to receive in my in-person workshops—is now being shared with a wider audience. I start by sharing my own entrepreneurial journey, which began with launching a podcast as a hobby. Over time, I discovered a desire to turn my passion for content creation into a full-time business. However, I quickly realized that most people attempting to create an online business were failing because they started by creating content without first laying the necessary groundwork. Instead of following a strategic sequence, they jumped straight into content creation. As a result, I developed an 11-step formula for building a successful online business: Determine your destination - What do you want your life and business to look like? Identify where you already add value - What are your gifts, talents, and areas of expertise? Determine your ideal customer - Who has the money, problems, and willingness to pay for your solutions? Learn about your ideal customers' problems - Conduct research to deeply understand their struggles. Determine your products and services - Align your offerings with your customers' needs. Create a value proposition statement - Clearly communicate who you are and how you help. Validate your business model - Get paid customers before creating content. Create Content - Create environments for people to discover who you are and what you have to offer. Attract Your Ideal Customer - AKA Grow Your Audience Market your products and services - Develop your sales and marketing skills. Test new products and services - Continuously innovate and improve. I'm offering you free access to the $2,000 "Building an Online Business" course I've taught in-person. All you need to do is email me at [email protected] and share a bit about your entrepreneurial journey and aspirations. If you take me up on this offer and complete the course, I'll also invite you to be my guest for two free sessions of my Next Level Coaching Program, where I can answer your questions and provide personalized guidance. Don't hesitate - email me today and let's get you on the path to entrepreneurial success!

In this value packed episode, I share 19 core essential beliefs that I believe are critical for entrepreneurs in order to achieve success. These beliefs cover a wide range of topics, from believing in your ability to succeed as an entrepreneur, to trusting that financial success will follow your passion and dedication, to being committed to continuous personal and professional growth. The 19 Core Essential Beliefs For Entrepreneurs are: I believe in my ability to succeed as an entrepreneur. I trust that financial success will follow my passion and dedication. I am confident in my unique skills and talents. I value my time and know how to prioritize effectively. I believe I am providing value to my customers or clients. I am dedicated to delivering high-quality work consistently. I am comfortable taking calculated risks. I am prepared to handle uncertainty and change. I trust my instincts and decisions. I believe in setting and achieving clear goals. I am committed to continuous personal and professional growth. I am willing to invest in myself and my business. I am capable of learning and adapting to new challenges. I embrace failure as a learning opportunity. I am open to feedback and willing to adjust my approach. I trust that persistence and hard work will lead to success. I understand the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships. I believe in the power of networking and community. I believe in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I also reference a previous episode I did titled "How Confident Are You In The Value You Offer?" (Episode 539) , which goes into depth on how to build your confidence in the value you provide. I encourage you to go back and listen to that episode if you are struggling in this area. Let’s Work On Your Beliefs Together: Today, I’m introducing a unique offering designed especially for individuals at the crossroads of change: The Life/Work Audit Session . Many wander through life with a sense of unfulfillment, sensing a deep-seated desire for change but unable to pinpoint what that change should be. You may feel stuck, knowing there’s more out there for you but not sure how to grasp it. It’s like standing at the edge of a vast landscape of possibilities without knowing which path to take. This exclusive session is tailored for those who, despite their achievements, find themselves searching for something more—something truly aligned with their deepest desires and purpose. It’s for you if you’ve ever questioned whether there’s more to life than what you’re currently experiencing. What is the Life/Work Audit Session? This one-time, in-depth session is designed to peel back the layers of your aspirations, challenges, and obstacles. It’s a deep dive into understanding what you truly want to create in this world and identifying the barriers that may be holding you back. Through insightful dialogue and guided exploration, we aim to uncover the potential and possibilities that lie beyond your current perceptions. Why consider this session? Clarity: Gain crystal-clear insight into what you genuinely want to achieve. Direction: Uncover the exact steps you need to take to move closer to your goals. Transformation: See beyond your current circumstances and unlock a vision for your life that excites and motivates you. Special Offer Details: Investment: $500 One-Time 90-Minute One-on-One Session Availability: Limited slots over the next three weeks. No Obligation: This session is a standalone offering, with no expectation for ongoing coaching. This is not just another coaching session. It’s an investment in uncovering the essence of what you seek in life and your work. Imagine waking up with a renewed sense of purpose, direction, and excitement for the possibilities that await you. Are you ready to explore the depths of your desires and unlock the fulfillment you are seeking? To reserve your slot, please reserve your spot today by clicking the link below: https://www.cliffravenscraft.com/offers/v5PqWwdd I look forward to connecting with you, Cliff

Have you ever felt the magic of something you love slowly slipping away? In this episode, I share how my experiment with creating a video version of this podcast was diminishing the magic of my beloved audio-first approach to creating podcast content. Tune in to this in-depth exploration of the potential value of creating a video version of an audio-only podcast. I share the highs, lows, and the pivotal decision that brought the spark back to my content creation journey. Summary: I recount my recent journey of returning to a consistent weekly production schedule. With a desire to maximize my reach, I decided to create a live-streamed video version of my podcast. Despite my extensive experience with live streaming and video production, I soon realized that my current approach was introducing more challenges than benefits. I share my history with live streaming, from early audio live shows via SkypeCast to video streaming on Ustream, and the transition back to audio-only content, until just recently. I discuss the technical hurdles and time demands that came with producing high-quality video content, and how these challenges led me to reconsider my approach. After recounting my recent explorations and the lessons I've learned, I offer recommendations for those considering adding a video version to their audio-first podcast. Join me on this evolving journey as I deliver valuable insights to help you weigh the pros and cons of creating a video version while preserving the essence of your audio-first podcasting approach. Join My New Group Coaching Program for Early-Stage Entrepreneurs! Are you an early-stage entrepreneur or an aspiring one? If so, I have some exciting news for you! I am launching a brand new group coaching program starting on January 9. This weekly, 90-minute session is designed to teach you everything you need to know about building a successful and profitable online business. Here's what you can expect from this program: Weekly 90-Minute Sessions : Each session will cover essential elements of building an online business. I will share all the valuable insights and strategies I have learned over the years. Access to Exclusive Course : You will get access to my existing "Building an Online Business" course, along with all-new content created during our sessions. Direct Interaction and Q&A : Every session includes a direct Q&A segment where you can ask me anything related to your business journey. Ongoing Support : Whether you're just starting or already running an online business but not yet hitting the $10,000/month income mark, this program is for you. Recorded Sessions : Can't make it to a live session? No problem! Every session will be recorded and uploaded to a dedicated archive. You'll receive an email notification with a summary and timestamps, so you can easily find and revisit the topics that interest you most. This program will provide you with incredible access to mentorship, coaching, and the support you need to take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level. Interested? Here's How to Join: Email me at [email protected] with the subject line "Online Coaching Program For Business Owners". Let me know you heard about this offer, and I'll get back to you with more details and answer any questions you might have. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your business and achieve your goals. Take action now and secure your spot in this transformative coaching program. Until next time, I encourage you to take everything you do to the next level. Cliff Ravenscraft

I’ve been observing an alarming trend. Many people are prematurely quitting their day jobs, having fallen for the myth of overnight success. In this episode, I will discuss the myth of overnight success and its negative impact on the wellbeing of those who believe in it. I will introduce three questions to consider before quitting your day job and four essential business foundations to establish beforehand. Additionally, I will provide three suggestions for those who may have prematurely left their day jobs. Next Level Mastermind As a self-employed business owner, applying for the Next Level Mastermind could be the transformative decision that propels your business and personal growth to unprecedented heights. This mastermind group is designed specifically for driven entrepreneurs like you who seek not only to excel in their business ventures but also to live a life marked by fulfillment, peace, and continuous learning. By joining, you will connect with like-minded professionals in a supportive, collaborative environment that challenges you to surpass your current boundaries. Whether it's overcoming obstacles, strategizing for growth, or simply finding your path to personal satisfaction, the Next Level Mastermind provides the community, resources, and expert guidance necessary to make each step forward impactful. Don't miss this chance to elevate your business and yourself. Apply today at NextLevelMastermind.info . Outline for this episode Central Theme(s) Let’s put an end to the Myth of The Overnight Success. Let’s stop the trend of people quitting their day jobs prematurely. Three Questions To Ask Before You Quit Day Job Do I have a track record of meeting the needs of a community of people? Are people telling other people about the important work that I am doing in the world? Are people coming to me and asking me for help with an offer to pay for that help? Four Key Foundations For A Thriving Business Financial Stability A Proven and sustainable business model. (Validated Products/Services) Significant Savings (Min 9-12 months runway) Revenue Consistency A regular and sufficient income from the business. An understanding of the true timeline for building a profitable business. Mindset Development An ability to manage emotions, unmet expectations and significant risk. Skill Development A commitment to developing necessary entrepreneurial skills. (Time Management, Pricing, Sales, Marketing, Software, etc.) Three Recommendations For Those Who Have Quit The Day Job Prematurely Review The Financial Health of the Business Evaluate current financial situation. Discover and document any potential financial gaps. Identify alternative income sources if necessary. Strengthen Business Foundations Focus on building a consistent client base. Refine products/services to meet market demand. Your Product/Service should MEET DEMAND, not try to create it. Mindset and Continued Learning Invest in your growth in the area of mindset and emotional state management. Consistently expand your professional skill development. (Especially in the areas of sales and marketing)

In this episode, I open up about the top three mistakes I've made over the past four years. I'll share how stopping my weekly podcast content, neglecting consistent email communication with my audience, and abandoning my life-giving early morning routine impacted my journey. Join me as I share the lessons I've learned from these mistakes and how they are shaping my approach moving forward. Whether you're an entrepreneur, content creator, or someone striving for personal growth, there's something valuable in these reflections for you. Next Level Mastermind As a self-employed business owner, applying for the Next Level Mastermind could be the transformative decision that propels your business and personal growth to unprecedented heights. This mastermind group is designed specifically for driven entrepreneurs like you who seek not only to excel in their business ventures but also to live a life marked by fulfillment, peace, and continuous learning. By joining, you will connect with like-minded professionals in a supportive, collaborative environment that challenges you to surpass your current boundaries. Whether it's overcoming obstacles, strategizing for growth, or simply finding your path to personal satisfaction, the Next Level Mastermind provides the community, resources, and expert guidance necessary to make each step forward impactful. Don't miss this chance to elevate your business and yourself. Apply today at NextLevelMastermind.info .

Most people are living a life that’s not even close to the life of their dreams. Some people are living parts of their dream, but they feel something is missing. Many feel stuck in this season of life or go through their day with a sense that they were made for something more. In a word, life has been an overall disappointment. The reason? We are all just conforming to the world around us, never stopping to ask ourselves who we truly are and what we truly want out of life. The secret to a fulfilling life is to figure out who you are, what dreams light you up, what you care deeply about, and then unashamedly live as your truest, most authentic self in spite of what everyone around you is doing or saying. In today’s culture this is called being a “rebel”—which simply means: do it your way. But how? In this powerful session, bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and 7-figure entrepreneur Graham Cochrane teaches his 5 part R.E.B.E.L. Framework which will give you actionable exercises and steps to uncover your uniqueness, create a personalized vision for your life and unpack a simple way to discover your purpose. Pre-Order Graham’s New Book at TheRebelBook.com Transform Your Professional Life with Experienced Coaching At the end of this episode, Graham emphasized the importance of working with coaches who can facilitate the achievement of your most ambitious goals. As someone who has worked closely with numerous elite entrepreneurs, I have a proven track record of assisting my clients during some of the most significant pivots in their personal and professional lives. If you are interested in learning more about having me as your coach, email me right away at [email protected] with the subject line "Coaching."

In this podcast episode, I interview my dear friend Jessica Rhodes about her podcast guesting service business, Interview Connections , which she started in 2013. Over the past decade, her business has become a powerful entity that helps individuals reach their ideal clients and expand their audience. Listen in to learn valuable tips on how to make a strong impact when given the opportunity to be a guest on other people's podcasts. Hear are just a few of the key insights from this episode Appearing as a guest on other podcasts has proven to be the most effective method for reaching your ideal clients and exposing your message to a large audience. Over the past decade, I have referred numerous clients to Interview Connections and have received entirely positive feedback. The importance of thorough preparation for podcast interviews cannot be overstated. This includes researching the host and having a clear call to action. Having a clear call to action is important, but possessing unwavering confidence in the value of your course of action is the key to eliciting responses. There is a need to be fully present and engaged during interviews to establish a connection with the listeners and hosts. Using a clear, compelling "one sheet" to make it easy for hosts to say yes and ask questions that help you achieve your goals. Audience size numbers from directories are not accurate or transparent, and the right audience is more important than a large size. Thorough onboarding, training, and pitching over multiple months is important for services like Interview Connections to deliver top-notch results. Authenticity and vulnerability build strong business relationships, and local employees provide personalized service better than outsourcing. Referral partnerships can help promote services when there is trust, integrity, and a track record of success. Ongoing coaching can help overcome mindset blocks keeping clients from achieving their goals. Jessica Rhodes has been running her "Interview Connections" podcast guesting service for over a decade. Our conversation in this podcast episode has convinced me to be a long-term advocate for her company. I fully endorse Jessica Rhodes and her podcast booking services. Book a call with Jessica today at InterviewConnections.com . Let her know that Cliff sent you.

In today's episode, I share a transformative conversation highlighting how one coaching session can shift years of aspirations into rapid reality. Recently, I had the pleasure of coaching Ryan Hamilton, a visionary who had been nurturing the dream of launching his own podcast and becoming an industry thought leader for seven years. During our intensive 90-minute session, Ryan sought to break free from the shackles of perfectionism and to gain momentum on his journey. We focused on practical steps that would empower him to "get the train out of the station" and bring his long-awaited passion project to the world. This episode underscores a vital lesson: the 'perfect' time or idea is a myth that often impedes progress. Taking incremental, yet deliberate, steps can ignite a powerful chain reaction, propelling your dreams into existence. It’s about progress, not perfection. My hope is that Ryan’s story and our coaching conversation inspire you to translate your intentions into tangible steps. Remember, starting with even the smallest act can lay the groundwork for greater achievements. And if you’re seeking guidance or a collaborative brainstorm to advance your objectives, I'm here to lend my expertise. For those interested in exploring the Next Level Mastermind or a one-on-one coaching relationship, reach out to me directly at [email protected] and use “Coaching” as your email subject. Let's make your vision a reality, together. Be sure to check out Ryan's "Make Real Stuff" podcast. Click here for a link to episode 001 .

In this info-packed episode, I'm joined by my longtime friend and fellow online business expert Ray Edwards to dive deep into why we believe Kajabi is the ultimate all-in-one platform for online business owners. Ray and I take a trip down memory lane to remember the "bad old days" of cobbling together a frankenstein's monster of different tools, services, and platforms just to create and sell an online course or membership site. We share horror stories of downtime, limited storage and bandwidth, security issues, and the general hassle of managing it all. We then explain how Kajabi changed everything for us and made our online businesses infinitely easier to manage. Key benefits I discuss include: Robust website hosting with amazing uptime and security Unlimited storage for videos, audios, PDFs, images - No Caps! Unlimited bandwidth - no traffic overage charges Built-in payment processing, coupons, subscriptions, etc. Full featured email marketing and automation Easy course and membership site creation Podcast hosting and distribution Webinars, coaching, and live streaming Affiliate program tracking and payments Page builder and templates optimized for marketing and sales Active user community for peer support And so much more! And all this for just $159/month on the Growth plan! Ray and I agree this is an amazing value compared to paying for individual tools and services. Whether you're just starting out or already have an established online business, Kajabi has everything you need to create, market, sell, and deliver your digital products and services all in one place. Listen now to hear our full discussion and decide for yourself if Kajabi could be a gamechanger for your online business! Ready to transform your online business with Kajabi? Sign up using my affiliate link and experience the difference for yourself! Affiliate Link: http://MindsetAnswerMan.com/Kajabi

In this episode, I share a recording from a recent Ask Me Anything session that I hosted. During the session, Kristy posted the following question in the chat: "I need courage to start a blog that I can monetize. Do you have any words of wisdom? I've tried starting a blog in the past but struggled with maintaining consistency. I don't want to fall into old habits. Please advise. Thanks!" In response, I shared a powerful story to illustrate why Kristy may have been struggling to find the courage to consistently create content for her blog and take the necessary steps towards monetizing it. Following this, I discussed the most common mistake that bloggers and podcasters make when they are looking to establish an online business, and offered advice on how to avoid falling into the same trap. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE BUILDING AN ONLINE BUSINESS WORKSHOP

In this episode of The Cliff Ravenscraft Show, I had the pleasure to deep dive into the creative side of the multifaceted Pat Flynn. Pat, an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and the brain behind "Smart Passive Income," shares how his identity has evolved over time. We talk about how his love for fishing has offered him peace away from his bustling life and business. His answer to why he's here iwas simply profound: to serve and help others. You'll discover to top 3 things that Pat is most proud of creating and how Pat expresses the value of time over money, which he learned while building his team for SPI media. Pat's new venture into the Pokémon YouTube channel "Deep Pocket Monster" and his strategy behind it is a true testament to his creative spirit. His story of walking away from his Premium WordPress Plugins project offers valuable lessons about knowing what you want and validating your ideas. Ending on a thoughtful note, Pat revealed his desire to be an "Agent of Change in the Education Space," and how he's creating space and boundaries in his life for peace. Pat Flynn Links Let Go Book Will It Fly? Book Superfans Book SmartPassiveIncome.com Pat Flynn YouTube Channel Pat’s Deep Pocket Monster Channel Other Links Shared At The End of The Episode Building An Online Business Workshop Day With Cliff Mentoring Offer Next Level Mastermind

Several years ago, I realized that my brand, Podcast Answer Man, wasn't fully reflecting the guidance I was providing to those seeking strategies, tools and techniques to [fill in the blank]. That's why I decided to evolve my brand to Mindset Answer Man - to provide a better indication of the kind of advice I was giving. As the result of working with so many people, I began to recognize patterns between those who were successful in achieving their podcasting goals and those who were not. What I found was that despite having helped many people launch their podcasts, many of them had built their podcasting efforts on a shaky foundation, leaving them unable to experience the full potential of podcasting. In this episode, I explore how important the order of operations of STATE, STORY, and STRATEGY is to creating the most successful outcomes. Are you looking to drive growth and increase the visibility of your business? I am a Master Business Coach, Mentor & Speaker. I have over fifteen years of experience in online business. Through my business, I've helped tens of thousands of people find their purpose and passion and create an online, personal brand and business that allows them to have a powerful, positive and profound impact in the world. I have generated millions of dollars through online course sales, physical products, one-off training tutorials, paid webinars, public speaking, in person workshops, conferences, paid mastermind groups, one-on-one coaching and several other streams of income. I want to help you break free from anything that is holding you back from living the life of your dreams and doing the work you feel most called to do in this world. Below are the the products and services that I know will allow you to take your message, your business and your life to the next level. 1. Train With Cliff Audio Journal Podcast - This "audio journal format" podcast provides invaluable insights that my high-paying clients receive from me directly, plus exclusive, never-before-seen behind-the-scenes knowledge about how I run my business. My clients have found this podcast so valuable that nearly all of them have subscribed to it. Click Here To Learn More . 2. Free The Dream Online Course - Are you struggling to make your dream or goal a reality? Don't waste any more time! Take the time to go through the six-hours of content in the Free The Dream Online Course and unlock the power of transformation. Whether you choose to go through the material in a single day or take a weekend retreat, you will find yourself completely changed after your experience with this course. Discover the world from a new perspective and unleash the potential that lies within. Click Here To Free Your Dream Today . 3. Next Level Mastermind - If you're a full-time self-employed professional and not yet part of an ongoing mastermind group, it's time to take action! Stop what you're doing and take advantage of all the incredible video content and written content about mastermind groups found at NextLevelMastermind.info . Unlock the power of collaboration and networking with like-minded professionals and be part of a group that will help you achieve success! Click Here To Apply Today! 4. One-On-One Coaching - God has blessed me with extraordinary gifts and the ability to help clients uncover solutions they can't see on their own. No matter the problem or desired outcome, I can help guide you on the path to success – with multiple paths available to explore. Through one-on-one coaching, I'll equip you with the tools and confidence to reach your highest potential. Click Here To Apply For One-On-One Coaching With Me . Of course you might be interested in some of my other free content Click Here To See My Other Podcast Shows Click Here For My Best Keynote Message “All Beliefs Have Consequences.”

In this episode, I share why Kajabi adding podcasting functionality to their offering is the most exciting podcasting news I’ve heard since 2005. By the way, if you sign up for Kajabi using my affiliate link at MindsetAnswerMan.com/Kajabi before July 26th, you can get full access to all that Kajabi has to offer for three full months for only $99. I have other podcasts that might be of interest to you. See my list of shows at http://CliffRavenscraft.com/podcast Let's Work Together! Would you like to connect with me through one-on-one coaching or through one of my paid mastermind groups? If so, visit my WORK WITH ME PAGE and submit an application today.

I have other podcasts that might be of interest to you. See my list of shows at http://CliffRavenscraft.com/podcast Let's Work Together! Would you like to connect with me through one-on-one coaching or through one of my paid mastermind groups? If so, visit my WORK WITH ME PAGE and submit an application today.

Some people fear putting out content that is inspired by what they have learned from someone else. In this week's episode of The Cliff Ravenscraft Show, I'm going to share my thoughts on this topic. I have other podcasts that might be of interest to you. See my list of shows at http://CliffRavenscraft.com/podcast Let's Work Together! Would you like to connect with me through one-on-one coaching or through one of my paid mastermind groups? If so, visit my WORK WITH ME PAGE and submit an application today.

In this episode, I share a tech tip that would allow podcasters to add chapters, images and even links within audio podcasts. I have other podcasts that might be of interest to you. See my list of shows at http://CliffRavenscraft.com/podcast Let's Work Together! Would you like to connect with me through one-on-one coaching or through one of my paid mastermind groups? If so, visit my WORK WITH ME PAGE and submit an application today.

I have other podcasts that might be of interest to you. See my list of shows at http://CliffRavenscraft.com/podcast Let's Work Together! Would you like to connect with me through one-on-one coaching or through one of my paid mastermind groups? If so, visit my WORK WITH ME PAGE and submit an application today.

In last week's episode , I talked about the fact that you don't need a large audience to make a great living doing the work that you love. The focus of that episode was from a 2008 article by Kevin Kelly that suggested that one only needs 1,000 true fans to make a great living. In this week's episode, I answer the question… How do you attract 1,000 True Fans? I have other podcasts that might be of interest to you. See my list of shows at http://CliffRavenscraft.com/podcast Let's Work Together! Would you like to connect with me through one-on-one coaching or through one of my paid mastermind groups? If so, visit my WORK WITH ME PAGE and submit an application today.

Have you ever heard of the article titled “1000 True Fans” by Kevin Kelly ? This article came out at a powerful moment in my life, back in 2008, just after I transitioned into full-time self employment. I was looking to find a way to build a profitable business around the content, products and services that I created. Sure, I was blessed to have already grown a relatively nice sized audience from my first two years of podcasting as a hobby. However, I was not famous and I certainly didn't have millions of fans. I'll admit that I had a bit of anxiety about whether or not I'd be able to build my audience to a level that would allow me to be successful with my new business venture. However, when this article came it, it gave me a great sense of peace. Kevin Kelly wrote…. “To be a successful creator you don’t need millions. You don’t need millions of dollars or millions of customers, or millions of fans. To make a living as a craftsperson, photographer, musician, designer, author, animator, app maker, entrepreneur, or inventor you need only thousands of true fans.” You only need 1,000 true fans! Kevin described a true fan as someone that will buy anything you produce. He wrote… “These diehard fans will drive 200 miles to see you sing; they will buy the hardback and paperback and audible versions of your book; they will purchase your next figurine sight unseen; they will pay for the “best-of” DVD version of your free youtube channel; they will come to your chef’s table once a month.” In today's language, a true fan is someone who… will travel to your live event. will buy your book. will sign up for your course. will subscribe and follow you on every social media channel. and will share you work with everyone that they know! Simply put…. A true fan is someone who dedicated to you and your message. Can you really make a living with just 1,000 true fans? Yes! Note: We are talking about “making a living” not “making a fortune.” The following is the math that Kevin Kelly shared to explain what he meant… “Here’s how the math works. You need to meet two criteria. First, you have to create enough each year that you can earn, on average, $100 profit from each true fan. That is easier to do in some arts and businesses than others, but it is a good creative challenge in every area because it is always easier and better to give your existing customers more, than it is to find new fans. Second, you must have a direct relationship with your fans. That is, they must pay you directly. You get to keep all of their support, unlike the small percent of their fees you might get from a music label, publisher, studio, retailer, or other intermediate. If you keep the full $100 of profit from each true fan, then you need only 1,000 of them to earn $100,000 per year. That’s a living for most folks.” Heres' the thing…. You could have 500 true fans and create products and services that allowed you to earn merely $200 in profit, per year, from each true fan and you'd still earn $100,000 per year. The whole point is not that you need exactly 1,000 true fans. It's not even about the exact amount of $100,000 per year. The point is that YOU CAN MAKING A LIVING DOING WHAT YOU LOVE and you don't have to be famous to do so! Just imagine all the people who are working a day job, doing work that they hate, just to earn $30,000 per year. Any one of these individuals could start some sort of “side job” where they simply grow a community of only 300 true fans who will buy products that will net them $100 per year, in profit, from each true fan to replace that soul sucking day job. If you haven't done so, I encourage you to read the whole article by Kevin Kelly. After doing so, you'll understand why I always tell people to… STOP FOCUSING on THE NUMBERS and GROWING YOUR AUDIENCE and STAY FOCUSED on BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS with those who are already in your audience. Here's the truth though… Kevin said it like this… “The truth is that cultivating a thousand true fans is time consuming, sometimes nerve racking, and not for everyone. Done well (and why not do it well?) it can become another full-time job. At best it will be a consuming and challenging part-time task that requires ongoing skills. There are many creators who don’t want to deal with fans, and honestly should not.” While this approach is not for everyone. I have found that those who are willing to go this rout are able to find success in serving a specialized niche audience that can't be served by companies that are ill equipped to serve the focused interests of such small number of people. There is so much opportunity out there for you if you are willing to invest in relationships with people who connect with you and your message. I hope that you will find some encouragement and inspiration from this message. Sincerely, Cliff Ps. Are you one of my true fans? If so, I'd love to learn how I may serve you better. Please click here to answer a few questions in my True Fan Survey . I have other pod

Recently, my friend, Kris Pavone, joined the Next Level Mastermind and introduced himself to the group in our discussion forum. In the introduction, he wrote that… “I am a podcaster and success coach. I help men between the ages of 30-50 who feel frustrated, stuck, and are ready to change, gain clarity and take action so they can live the life of their dreams!” One of the ladies in our group responded by saying… “I've been listening to your podcast and even though I don't fit your demographic, I always enjoy them!” Shortly after that post, another one of the ladies in the group wrote… ” I agree with Tammy. I jumped on and listened to your podcast and felt right at home. I have to admit that I'm still struggling a bit with the idea of narrowing my target audience. I trust those who tell me I should but it seems so…limiting. Yet, listening to your podcast I didn't have that experience. (I'm obviously still pondering… Thanks for the great example!” I felt compelled to add my thoughts on narrowing your target audience and I related it to a story of when I was being taught archery at a summer camp that I attended as a child. This was the first time I'd ever thought to use archery as and example for teaching about the value of having a narrow target (focus) for your audience and how this does not “LIMIT” you from reaching others who do not fit that exact description. I decided that it would be a perfect topic for a podcast episode and that is how this week's episode came to be. I have other podcasts that might be of interest to you. See my list of shows at http://CliffRavenscraft.com/podcast Let's Work Together! Would you like to connect with me through one-on-one coaching or through one of my paid mastermind groups? If so, visit my WORK WITH ME PAGE and submit an application today.