Love & Sequins #7!
[ 22 December 2009 ]
Happy holidays from magical, snowy New York City! I’m really excited to announce the latest installment of Love & Sequins, my monthly podcast series.
Love & Sequins #7: BLOGGING 101 — Living & loving online, monetisation in the new world & thinking beyond the 9-5!
On December 16th, iCiNG celebrated its third birthday. In the past three years, my site has been visited by over 13 million people, I have been offered jobs at magazines & invited to speak on panels. Best of all, I have done what so many people think is the impossible dream: I have made a living as a writer & blogger.
Throughout the course of my blogging career, people have asked me how it’s possible to earn a living in this field. In this installment of my podcast, I explain how I’ve achieved my goals. From iCiNG’s tiny beginnings to the global influence it has today, I detail every step of the way. I lay it all on the table for you with complete honesty & transparency.
Love & Sequins #7 is a whopping 14,000 words — with the MP3 running for over an hour — discussing how to run a successful (read: popular & lucrative) blog!
In this chapter, you’ll learn about:
How to create a truly popular blog
A variety of ways in which you can monetise your blog (& think outside the box when doing so)
The bare-all truth of how I earn my living
How I primped, preened & promoted iCiNG from the very beginning
The complete low-down on finding readers (& giving them what they really want!)
Some of the biggest mistakes I’ve made & the steps I’d take if I had to start all over again
What to do when your visitor numbers start to drop or plateau
How you can use your blog to secure other opportunities to generate cash or press
The current trends in the blogosphere & how to capitalise on them
Navigating ethics & integrity online
Things to consider before you get in bed with a big company
Why comments aren’t everything
Figuring out how much of your life you want to share online
Hustling your way to the top
...& plenty more!
The entire podcast is packed with real, anecdotal, actionable advice, as well as a reading list & a slew of homework assignments! If it doesn’t make you a better blogger, I will eat one of my many hats!
I sent it to my friend before it went live, & he emailed me, saying…
“One more thought: It’s not about blogging. It’s about ANY online business. I.E., pretty much any modern business at all. Blogging is just an example, and at that, really a very small part of it. I read it, thinking about what I was doing, nodding & going, “Yep, good advice, yep, can use that”. ... Loved your comment about your core audience. Great advice about managing online rep. The list of ‘little things’ is frickin’ brilliant. High density, high value. All in all? Damn, that’s one high value podcast. Amazing stuff.” — S.
How does it work? If you just want this chapter, it’s a one-off payment of $12. Alternatively, you can subscribe monthly (& get all the back-issues) with 12 payments of $10, or pick up the whole thing for $7 an issue (a one-off payment of $84)!
Note! This chapter doesn’t detail the technical nitty-gritty of how to set-up & start a blog. If that’s what you need to know, check this out! Love & Sequins #7 was written more specifically for people who want to optimise & capitalise on what they already have.
Here’s a rundown on what the previous chapters were all about! Each installment is 10,000 words or more & full of love!
Love & Sequins #1: LEARNING TO LOVE YOURSELF — Self-adoration, manifesting your ideal persona, channelling your inner Marie Antoinette & everything in between!
“This podcast has been tremendously helpful. It has indeed resonated deeply in all of the tiny crevices of my being where I’ve been hiding my hopes and dreams and instead allowing myself to be swallowed by fear and doubt. I couldn’t agree more that we all know that self-confidence and self-love are the root of success, of living the positive inspired lives we all dream about. And yet, until now it escaped me that I could practice at being confident. That I could slowly develop these skills over time. I had a huge a-ha moment – of course it won’t happen overnight! Of course it’s about making small changes, adjusting my mindset and perceptions in the moment… Thank you for letting your own light shine as it has given me permission and inspiration to do the same. I’m deeply grateful.” — L.
“Dude. I’m just listening to your podcast now. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive because I’ve noticed your content on iCiNG has changed a little. This is the stuff. SIGH! RELIEF! CONGRATULATIONS. Don’t ever forget how much the ‘nonpareils’ have their hearts out there for you. Me included always always always. You’re just GOOD, you know? Substantial and full of perspective, dripping with sticky as honey vocabulary. Plus your voice is so badass.” — S.
Love & Sequins #2: THE SMART GIRL’S GUIDE TO BUSINESS — Taking control of your life, finding your passion, loving what you do & making mad bling!
“Thank you so much for your inspiration. it really gave me the kick up the bum that I needed. I was always afraid to take a creative income path, for fear that my talent was lacking. I still have these insecurities, but I realise that right now, while I’m young, enthusiastic and motivated is the very best time to give it a shot. If it doesn’t work out, then I’ll try something different. if it is a success, then maybe it will give me the confidence to try some other more innovative ideas.” — V.
“I am writing to you in regard to a project that I started as a result of your lovely site. I guess you could call me one of your inspired non-pareils. Wikifashion began as an idea around one year ago and I never really had the “chutzpah” to give it a go until I purchased your podcast on “being your own boss”. I fell asleep listening to that podcast every night for a week, taking it all in and furiously scribbling down notes. It was so groundbreaking for me and every word that you spoke really resonated with me. Thank you for inspiration and words of wisdom.” — M.
Love & Sequins #3: LOVE, SEX, THE GALAXY & EVERYTHING — From falling in love to co-habitation, & all the beauty & madness contained within!
“Gala, I loved this one! I listened to it as soon as you sent it. I’ve always been kind of a cynic when it comes to love, but I think I’m ready to let my guard down and take the plunge. The ‘love self-evaluation’ and ‘figuring out what you want from a partner’ parts stood out the most to me, and I’m definitely going to take the time to write and reflect on these areas. Thank you so much!” — D.
“This was supermegaawesome good! I like the way it flows and sounds natural… Like you’re whispering good advice in my ear! And also I was walking my dog while listening to this and 3 or 4 times I just burst out laughing at some of the things you said; a lot of strange looks! Please keep this up, they’re all super good and I really do owe a lot to you!” — V.
Love & Sequins #4: A GUIDE TO MANNERS FOR THE MODERN MINX — Etiquette, social graces & charming the pants off total strangers for the uninitiated!
“i just listened to this & it’s SO helpful, you have no idea. thank you, thank you, thank you! i’ve always been pretty socially awkward & it’s only gotten worse the past year or two & i’ve really been wanting to change that, but never knew where/how to start… i’m sure i’ll listen to it many more times :] & absolutely do the homework.” — M.
“Gala, you have truly hit the spot once more! I sat there nodding to myself, smiling with recognition, laughing out loud and thinking WOW this girl inspires me to change the world too as I listened to the 4th Love&Sequins. Thank you so much wonderful!” — A.
Love & Sequins #5: FINDING HAPPINESS & MAKING IT STAY — Choosing joy, making magic & devoting your life to love, adventure & deliciousness!
“Thank you Gala for this one. It is your best yet and came at a perfect moment as the universe so decided. Starting today I will be happier, stronger person, set my goals and achieve them. I will be happy because I can be and I am going to take responsibility for myself and my emotions and not blame it on anyone else. Thank you a million…think you gave me the push I needed to achieve my goal and be happy in the mean time. Thanks again! Stay magical stay wonderful stay powerful and never stop moving forward!!” — S.
“I can honestly say this is the best $12 you will ever spend. I’ve been seeing a psychologist for the past 6 months… What Gala has produced is that 6 months of therapy all wrapped up into an hour long podcast. Her advice about choosing how you react to situations is the most helpful life advice you may ever receive.” — K.
Love & Sequins #6: DAINTIER, SMARTER, BETTER DRESSED — A deluxe guide to looking truly fabulous, defining your personal style & being the best-dressed girl at any party!
“thanks again!! What lovely, positive inspiration for everybody! I’m stoked for my wardrobe challenge, and excited to put together new outfits and think a little outside the box. you are officially my new hero!!” — B.
“This months’ Love and Sequins was my favorite so far. It is clearly a subject that you feel very passionate about, and that really came across in the podcast… This podcast really inspired me, and even while I was listening to it, I had a pad of paper next to me and was jotting down outfit ideas and sketching possible combinations.” — V.
Pick ‘em all up with either of these options!
“I’m so glad I paid for all them upfront. Now every month I get a delicious chapter to inspire and thrill me. It’s one of my favourite pick-me-ups.” — L.
As always, I appreciate your support, encouragement & excitement so much! Thank you for coming along with me on this amazing journey!
Love letters & feather headdresses,
Tags: consumption,
how to,
podcast Add Gala on Twitter!
Thanks Gala! I just bought this one. I’ve been thinking a lot of turning this blogging thing I love so dearly into a career…or at least a way to supplement my income/ build a rapport with magazines and editors I’m trying to work with.
Yay! Did it come through okay? I hope you enjoy it, I think you’ll find it really helpful :>
I’ve listened to half of it and I’m not stopping now!
It’s so good – your charisma is ever increasing and I’m taking notes on little star and heart post-its! Thank you Gala!
P.S I like how these were dished out a little before this post – made me feel like I’m in a secret club. ;)
Oh but you are :D xoxox!
I really should have added these to my Christmas Wishlist. Just kicking myself a bit! Every issue intrigues me.
One of the things I love about following both you and Nubby is how well your advice speaks to fellow creatives. Even though we aren’t in the same industry it still applies and gives new focus.
Side note: I have a big birthday coming up and will remember to ask then, can’t wait!!!
Thanks Gala!
Gala,
I’ve always been a HUGE fan of your site(s) and this will be the first time I will buy a podcast. I just haven’t had the extra money lately.
I am buying this one because I really want to develop myself and my blog into something more than what it currently is. This is one of my New Years resolutions!
Thank you Gala, for all that you do. Even though we all only know you via the internet, your radiant soul shines through in every post, and now every podcast.
Much Love,
Crysti @crysticouture
I am so glad I happened to have some $ in my paypal; just got this one and already loving it! Thank you so much! (Also I giggled at the Geocities dinosaurs, I do feel that way a lot of the time.)
Question. Is this going to be turned into a legitimate, physical book when you’ve released all the chapters?
Because that would be just super…
This is awesome info. Thanks Gala.
Also I like how realistic you are about making money at blogging. You keep reminding us that it is super-hard work… something that a lot of people probably don’t realize. Good to have a reality check.
I am so excited to listen to this! It couldn’t have come at a better time- one of my goals for this break is to try to make my fledgling blog more original and useful. Though your podcasts are on the pricy side, each one I’ve ended up purchasing has improved my life in one way or another, and I’m sure this one will be no different.
I really wish I could afford these… why are they so expensive? :(
ok i havent bought a love and sequins before but my christmas treat to myself is going to be this podcast! you rock
Thanks again Gala. Awesome value for $. Jam packed with tips, insight and inspiration. You rock!
I haven’t been on my home computer yet to make sure it works, but I bought one before and got it to download alright. I’ll let you know if I have any problems. Thanks again!
You should have a christmas competition for a couple of non-pareils to win a subscription to your podcasts!
It seems they are so popular but a few can’t afford. I think it would work out well for everyone!
x
Please read my message on facebook! its very important! please!!!
Ah okay, I think you have got me into going for the whole shebang now! I’ve found so much great advice in the ones I have bought so far, I can’t think of a wiser was to spend my christmas money. Definately tops splurging it on fleeting fancies! Cheers m’dear.
x
I JUST bought your self-love podcast and I can’t wait to get it!
your timing is amazing, as usual. i’ve been considering getting my own website for my blog & drastically improving it & trying to make some money of off it.
i haven’t been able to listen to it yet, but skimmed through the pdf & it looks pretty fantastic. thank you! i’ll definitely listen to it today.
im so excited! i will be getting the whole 12 months lot in the next couple of weeks!! i soooo cant wait!! i cant wait to be inspired! also one question is a copy included that i can read as well as the podcast to listen too??
I just purchased Love and Sequins#7 as a Christmas present from me to (ehm)me and I am thrilled with it! I’ve been trying to get my blog www.facetsofthefabulous.blogsp… off the ground, I know my niche etc but haven’t been able to attract readers that I know are out there! Thank you for giving me the tools to succeed. Thank you!
Just bought Love and Sequins #7. Loved your comments on diversifying ways to achieve a good income stream, plus all the techie bits which I don’t fully understand yet (e.g. RSS, TextWrangler etc). I’m starting a new blog in the New Year and will take all your advice on board. X
i just bought mine! eeek i’ve got myself a vanilla latte and im listening to it right now :o) I’ll be gone a while…
This is the first podcast I’ve bought from you, and I love it so much, I may have to backtrack and buy the previous six. I listened to it in a rose-scented bubble bath while it snowed outside- perfect.
I emailed you yesterday, but I’m not sure if I got your email address right, as I typed it off the top of my head, but I just wanted to make extra sure: I can’t access the email address on my Paypal anymore, so could you pretty please send it to nikkeeboyle@gmail.com instead? thanks a bunch!!
best £7 i ever spent! an hour and 10 minutes of pure motivation and inspiration! Mwaaaah
Gala, This is my first time buying one of your podcasts, and I listened to the first couple minutes to make sure it works. I love it already, and I’m trying to be patient. This is what I’m going to listen to while I sit on the plane to visit my parents. I think I could really use this advice. Oh, and your friend who loves your voice is so right. You sound bright and happy, which is uplifting on its own.
This was awesome Gala, thank you!
Gala, I just bought the #7 for $12 and I loved it! Now I want all the previous ones as well. But I don’t understand. Can I get all the previous ones if I subscribe and pay the monthly $10 for the next ones. I already paid for this one, and I don’t want to pay for it again, if you understand what I mean…
Or should I just buy the first ones individually?
I really want to support your writing, but I don’t have that much money, so I want to chose the most economical way of doing this! ;)
Hey there lovely girl! I just bought L&S 7 and have received the link to download the pdf, but am wondering where I get the podcast?
Can’t wait to listen, it’s going to be my brain candy on my flight home on Tuesday!
xo