As an empty nest entrepreneur, setting goals is essential for sustained growth and achievement. But how do you effectively set goals that encompass both short-term wins and long-term aspirations, say, three to five-year goals? And as many of you know, most of our listeners are in the empty nest, meaning we’re fifties, sixties, even seventies. And I…

We’re thrilled to have Linda Goldfarb on the podcast with us to discuss how to leverage your podcasting personality. Linda is an award-winning podcast host, author, actress, and audiobook narrator, renowned for her expertise in creating engaging audio content. In this episode, we discuss the art of podcasting, starting with Linda’s journey from gue…

In our latest podcast episode about balancing writing and audience growth, I had the pleasure of welcoming Janet McHenry, a renowned national speaker and author of 27 inspiring books, including her latest release, “Praying Personalities.” Janet shared her invaluable insights on balancing the writing life with entrepreneurial endeavors. Resources Ta…

Today, we have the pleasure of conversing with Michelle Rayburn, an accomplished writer, podcaster, speaker, and author of several inspirational Christian living books. Known for her delightful sense of humor and knack for repurposing life’s challenges into teachable moments, Michelle joins host Ruthie to share her extensive experience in freelance…

Today we’re covering the top 5 episodes from year 4 of the Authentic Online Marketing podcast! Each year we cover the top episodes that you all love the most. This year we covered so many wonderful topics like learning to say “no”, self-publishing tips, and online marketing tools for entrepreneurs. Resources Sign up to listen to the private podcast…

In today’s episode, we’re talking about effective email ideas and marketing strategies with special guest, Christa Hutchins from the Just One Simple Thing podcast. Ruthie and Christa discuss the importance of nurturing your audience through well-crafted emails, the pivotal role email plays compared to social media, and how consistent communication …

Amy Debrucque joins us on the podcast today to discuss the struggles of entrepreneurial focus. Amy brings a wealth of experience and insight into the world of Christian entrepreneurship. She’s not only a confidence coach and author of “Embolden,” but also a speaker, cancer survivor, host of the Life on Purpose podcast, and co-creator of the Focus r…

Everyone loves a good story, especially Instagram users browsing through their daily feeds. But here’s the catch: so many of us aren’t fully utilizing Instagram Stories. This episode is aimed at changing that. Here are 10 ways you can repurpose Instagram Stories by transforming them into valuable content across all of your neighborhoods — Reels, ca…

For the month of April, Ruthie is embracing an Instagram posting sabbatical and dedicating a whole month exclusively to Instagram Stories. In this episode, Ruthie is talking about deciphering Instagram analytics and how to repurpose content that truly resonates with your audience. Discover the significance of Reach, Replies, Link Clicks, and Profil…

In this episode of the Authentic Online Marketing Podcast, I announce my decision to take an Instagram sabbatical for the entire month of April and only focusing on Instagram Stories. But hear me out – this isn’t just about taking a break. It’s an intentional effort to explore the power of Instagram stories and share valuable story tricks of the tr…

In this episode of Authentic Online Marketing, Ruthie talks with Suzanne, Cathy, and Jennifer about authentic Reels ideas that are unique to their message on Instagram. These Christian creatives shared their experiences with utilizing reels on Instagram to reach and authentically connect with their target audiences. Here are some key takeaways from…

Are you leveraging SEO keywords in your Instagram strategy? In a recent podcast episode on Authentic Online Marketing, we discussed Instagram SEO Simplified: the increasing importance of SEO keywords over hashtags to boost your visibility and engagement on Instagram. Resources Check out this article from SEO guru Neil Patel Get access to the privat…

On this episode of Authentic Online Marketing, Ruthie helps Jennifer explore her journey in pursuing speaking opportunities and how to pitch for podcasts. From overcoming overwhelm to identifying her podcast content, we dive into practical steps and valuable insights. Discover how to pitch yourself as a guest on other podcasts, find your core messa…

Do you have a new business or perhaps a newly revamped business, but not a website? You know you need one, but it’s just one more thing on the growing list of entrepreneurial duties, and somehow it always gets shoved to the back of the line. A one-page website might be the very thing you need to get started. Today we’re talking about how to create …

In this episode we discussed the top 5 email marketing trends that will shape the landscape this year. As we enter 2024, it’s time to revamp our email marketing strategies to stay ahead of the curve. These tips will elevate your email game and create impactful connections with your audience. Resources Join the 5-day Instagram Growth Challenge start…

In this episode, we’re thrilled to bring you an in-depth discussion on the 2024 Instagram trends, with my assistant, Sara Motes. This episode highlights the 2024 Instagram trends, including the domination of video content, the impact of short-lived content like Instagram stories, the growing significance of SEO over hashtags, the emergence of hybri…

Every once in a while you hear of an unexpected Christmas miracle. Three years back, I received mine. You see, 25 years ago, I made a snap decision I would later regret. Resources Christmas gift idea: Ruthie’s book, Empty Nest Awakening Check out Authentic Online Marketing School A young wife with 2 kids and a baby, I was packing our house up for a…

In the latest episode of the Authentic Online Marketing podcast, I had the pleasure of talking with Jennifer Sakata to discuss her journey in content creation, attracting followers, and building an email list on Instagram. Discover how she overcame creative overwhelm and found a balance in her weekly schedule, prioritizing writing above all. We dis…

Are you looking to create a high converting content marketing plan in just 8 weeks? Look no further! Join me and a community of Christian creatives and entrepreneurs in Authentic Online Marketing School as we dive into the perfect blend of Instagram and email marketing. Authentic Online Marketing School is not just another course – it’s a supportiv…

In this episode, Ruthie is joined by three entrepreneurs, Cathy, Suzanne, and Brenda, to discuss their experiences as women in business online. They each share their unique entrepreneurial journeys, from content creation on platforms like Instagram and Newsletter Marketing to selling products through social media and email marketing. These women re…

These Empty Nest Case Studies feature my amazing guests, fellow empty nesters, Suzanne, Brenda, Cathy, and Pat, discussing the various unique stages of empty nesting, from being a boomerang empty nester (what’s that?!) to fully retired. Each guest shares how they navigate this stage of life, whether it involves grandchildren, side gigs, or pursuing…

In today’s episode, I’m talking about how to reverse engineer your launch. I recently launched my book, “Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose,” and I’ve been sharing my tips for a successful book launch in the previous episodes. In our recent episodes, we’ve covered the world of book launches and the importance of…

Today I’ll be sharing 7 marketable book launch tips for Instagram users. As writers, we know that marketing our books is a daunting task, yet it’s crucial for actually selling the book and getting your message out to the people who need it. So, whether you’re an aspiring author or an experienced writer looking for fresh marketing strategies, this e…

Ever wondered about the process of writing and self-publishing a book? Today I’m diving into the behind-the-scenes conversation with Kent Sanders on my decision to write a book and the pros and cons of self-publishing. Resources Get Ruthie’s new book, “Empty Nest Awakening” Learn more about Market Refined Media & Publishing Check out Kent’s website…

I’ve just released my book, “Empty Nest Awakening: Weaving the Threads of Your Passions into Purpose.” In this episode, I’m sharing a little about the book, why I wrote it, and how it relates to my work as an online marketing coach. I’ll also give you some insider knowledge on how to successfully launch your own book. Resources Order your copy of E…

Today, I want to highlight my wonderful guest, Kim Stewart, from the Book Marketing Mania podcast, who shared some invaluable secrets on building authentic connections. Resources Preorder your copy of Empty Nest Awakening Follow Kim Stewart on Instagram @Kimstewinspired Check out Kim Stewarts’ podcast Book Marketing Mania Podcast Listen to Ruthie’s…

Are you struggling to know what your audience wants? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many of us have been through the “throwing spaghetti at the wall” phase. Let me share some insights on testing your market and finding your audience. It’s common to have a passion for sharing something but not know exactly who your audience is right away. When you’r…

We have a saying here that community grows opportunity and that starts with mastering platform consistency. Networking and being willing to get outside your comfort zone and talk to people builds your community. That’s how you build peace and goodwill and really good relationships. Something I try to teach people is that I’m not going to promise yo…

You need to make sure your website is ready to help you crush your goals for your business with these 5 critical website features. Maybe your goals include getting serious about your blog, or maybe being more consistent with your email list. No matter what your goals are for your business you’re likely going to be sending more people to your websit…

As entrepreneurs we need the right online marketing tools to grow our businesses. I’m all about Instagram and email marketing, but there are so many other things involved in my work on a daily basis. I’m sharing my top time saving online marketing tools that I use in my business. Resources *This episode contains either affiliate links or links to m…

Ready to boost your online marketing game? In this episode, we delve into the world of successful affiliate marketing and how it can boost your sales and business. It’s important to realize how affiliate marketing is an additional income stream for both active and passive sales. Given these points, when you regularly promote or talk about certain t…

*This episode contains either affiliate links or links to my products. Should you choose to purchase, the show will go on! Woo hoo! On this episode of Authentic Online Marketing, we dive into the world of Threads, the new app released by Instagram that is generating a lot of buzz. I’ll show you an inside look at Threads based on my personal experie…

I wanted to do a roundup of five different podcast episodes from the archives to delve into the topic of taking breaks from social media, particularly Instagram and how to fit Instagram into your busy schedule. Last summer I did a special series on this very topic and I’ve heard from so many Instagrammers and marketers who want to take a break over…

Do you find yourself saying “yes” to too many things? Learning to say “no” can be incredibly challenging! Time is your most valuable asset. In this episode we dive into the importance of saying “yes” to the right things, breaking down big goals, and achieving those goals while protecting your time. Saying yes to too many things means you can’t comp…

*This episode contains either affiliate links or links to my products. Should you choose to purchase, the show will go on! Woo hoo! Before we jump into the top 5 episodes of 2022, we are celebrating the third birthday of the Authentic Online Marketing Podcast! I just want to say a heartfelt “thank you” for those of you out there who have helped us …

Why are my Instagram live video views so low? Do Instagram lives turn into Reels? How long is too long for a pre-recorded video to upload? Asking questions is key to further your growth, no matter what stage you are at in your Instagram growth journey. As we all know, Instagram gives us plenty of fodder for questions, and I love exploring what they…

Should you get Meta Verified on Instagram? Today I’m sharing insight about this new Instagram feature. As with anything for your platform, we need to research our options and look into alternatives that can help replicate our authentic voices. While we often need to invest in our businesses to promote growth, other times we can be resourceful with …

Today we’re going to talk about a hot topic: Artificial intelligence, otherwise known as AI. What do you think about it? How do you feel about ChatGPT? Let’s talk about how to use AI for content writing. By now you’ve likely heard about this newest trend designed to help content creators write and design. While saving time and brain space, Artifici…

For today’s topic we’re going to talk about why you need to move your clients off rented space and onto your email list. Turning Instagram followers into email subscribers can be a game changer for your business. There are so many platforms at our fingertips now to take advantage of and build your client base. And as you know, my favorite is Instag…

Identifying your main goal in your social media presence can tie directly to your email list. All month long we’ve focused on writers and authors in the realm of online marketing, writing an email, and social media. Stay tuned to learn more about Email Subscriber Strategies for Authors. In this episode, we are combining a couple of previous episode…

You know you’ve been called to write. You may even have a book. But something’s missing…you can’t seem to bring yourself to tell people about it. Today we are going to learn how to Step into Courageous Authorship with Sherry Ward. On social, you’ve posted about it one time. Mostly, you just offer encouragement through scripture and quotes. It’s the…

March is writer’s month on the podcast and today we’re chatting about how to get your copy lean and RIPT. I don’t know about you, but I struggle with cutting down my verbiage. I’m not so much full of verbal verbosity as I am written verbosity! LOL. We are going to learn together how to write lean and RIPT with Dalene Bickel. I could go on and on an…

Today’s topic is Grow Your Author Presence On Instagram but before I get to that, you should know that for the Month of March, we are focusing on you, the author and writer, to help you understand how to take advantage of not only Instagram, but email marketing, book promo, writing tips, and more. Join my special guests and me as we bring you the b…

*This episode contains either affiliate links or links to my products. Should you choose to purchase, the show will go on! Woo hoo! Are you a Christian writer or author ready to transform book marketing? If so, I want to invite you to join me at the Kingdom Writers Conference Email Marketing Edition, A FREE one-day virtual conference to help writer…

Welcome back to our entrepreneurial series running all month of February 2023. I’m your host, Ruthie Gray and this is The Authentic Online Marketing Podcast. Today, I’m going to get candid with you about my 5 Tips for Taking The Entrepreneurial Leap of Faith. *This episode contains either affiliate links or links to my products. Should you choose t…

Welcome back to the Authentic Online Marketing podcast, I’m your host, Ruthie Gray, and all month long we’re covering Entrepreneurial highlights that go with running an online business. Many of our listeners are writers and authors so I know you’re going to especially love listening to 10 Ways Writers Can Make Money with my guest, Kent Sanders. You…

For Christian female business owners, the prospects of starting a successful venture can be both exciting and intimidating. And while marketing is a huge part of growing a business, it’s much more than just building a social media presence and email list. The key is finding entrepreneurial ideas that are creative, purposeful, and cost-effective. As…

While it’s no secret Instagram LOVES to throw us all the curveballs, I do love a handful of the features they’ve rolled out. Here they are, from Marsha groovy to…well…Farrah’s hair. (And let’s be honest, we all wanted Farrah’s hair, am I right?) Let’s get started with the top 5 Instagram Features! *This episode contains either affiliate links or li…

Today’s topic is How To Gain Organic Followers. One overlooked and undervalued Instagram tool for gaining organic followers is live video. Live video may scare you, and I get it! But the more you practice, the better you get, and live video establishes you as an authority in your area of expertise. Today’s short masterclass training tip shares how …

Today’s masterclass is on how to grow followers and make sure they stick around! I’m sharing 7 ways to reach new followers who want and need your content. (You know – the authentic ones!) Now, here is an important truth. In order to reach new followers you have to get out of your comfort zone. Resources Download your free Instagram growth kit here.…