In response to a challenge to create a $9 product in a weekend – I created a course on one of my favorite ways of getting to know people online… Audio Spotlights. When you are reaching out to someone you don’t know – it’s hard to get a chance to really ask the questions you need to ask to see if there is a way for you to work together. An audio spotlight is a short interview with a prospect that you share via your newsletter, post on your blog etc.

As an example for the course – I got to do something I’ve wanted for a long time – I’ve interviewed Jasper!. Here’s what we discussed:

1. The Journey from Archaeology to Marketing:
   Jasper’s journey into the world of marketing began with an unexpected turn. As a trained archaeologist working in the deserts around Phoenix, his career took a hit during the 2008 crash. But his interest in blogging and the potential of new online platforms like YouTube sparked a new direction. He joined a marketing company and discovered the power of storytelling in attracting clients. Inspired by a British bespoke suit maker who gained clients through his blog, Jasper realized the importance of building relationships and telling compelling stories to connect with prospects.
2. Bridging the Generation Gap:
   Despite being of the same generation as his clients, Jasper acknowledges that technology can be intimidating for many solopreneurs. However, he emphasizes that platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and blogging are remarkably simple to use. The key lies in understanding the purpose behind the technology and focusing on building relationships. Jasper’s superpower is looking at content from the perspective of the prospect, ensuring it resonates and fosters trust. By shifting the focus from selling products to solving problems, entrepreneurs can connect with their audience on a deeper level.
3. The Power of Audio: The Audio Spotlight Course:
   Meredith and Jasper discuss the effectiveness of audio content in reaching and engaging audiences. With the rise of podcasts and the convenience they offer, people can consume valuable information while on the go. Podcasts, along with other audio formats, provide an opportunity to spark ideas and inspire listeners to seek further knowledge. By offering various content formats, including video, audio, and written, entrepreneurs can cater to different preferences and make their message accessible to a wider audience.
4. Lessons from Successful Marketing Initiatives:
   Reflecting on their Paycheck to Passion podcast, Jasper shares the success they experienced by interviewing solopreneurs who built businesses based on their passions. This approach helped many individuals realize that they could turn their skills and passions into a profitable venture. The podcast not only provided inspiration but also facilitated networking and relationship building, which are essential components of successful marketing. Jasper emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships over time and understanding the pain points of potential clients before offering solutions.
5. Overcoming Hurdles and Keeping It Simple:
   One of the biggest hurdles for entrepreneurs is falling into the trap of chasing shiny objects and investing in complex tools and systems that promise quick results. Jasper advises entrepreneurs to focus on the core aspects of their business, such as messaging and relationships, rather than getting overwhelmed by technology. Starting with simple tools like a WordPress website and a PayPal button allows entrepreneurs to gradually scale their marketing efforts as their business grows. The key is to keep it simple and remember that success lies in understanding and addressing the needs of the target audience.
6. The Future of Online Marketing:
   As technology continues to evolve, Jasper predicts that AI-powered content creation will play a significant role in the future of online marketing. AI tools, such as Chat GBT, can generate content ideas and suggestions, easing the burden of the blank page syndrome. Additionally, Jasper highlights the importance of targeting the right audience with the right content at the right time. With the increasing noise in the digital space, personalized and relevant content will become crucial for businesses. Building a community of like-minded individuals through platforms like Circle will also gain prominence, facilitating collaboration and support among solopreneurs.