Community Creators with Shana Lynn

Shana Lynn Bresnahan
  • 5.0 (29)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Entrepreneurs and online business owners can no longer grow with great marketing alone. If you want to scale your course, membership, or coaching program, I’ll teach you how to maximize your profit and multiply your impact by creating a thriving online community. Be sure to connect with me on IG: http://instagram.com/shanaspeaks I’ve spent over a decade working with top brands and entrepreneurs to cultivate thriving online communities and empowered community teams that increase their reach, retention, and revenue. This podcast is a space for community creators like you and me to share our insights, best practices, and what’s working now in the community space. You’ll discover proven strategies, actionable tactics, and innovative ideas that you and your team can use to reduce refunds and increase retention. You won’t want to miss an episode! Subscribe now and let’s get started! Show notes & more: https://ShanaLynn.com

  1. 5D AGO

    The #1 Way to Increase Retention Fast

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members Retention is one of the most important metrics in any online business especially if you run a course, membership, or group program. It directly impacts revenue, profitability, and long-term sustainability. But if you’ve been searching for a magic formula to instantly increase retention, this episode might surprise you. In this conversation, we break down what data actually reveals about the biggest driver of retention and it’s probably not what you think. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why retention is a must-track metric as your business scalesThe common mistake program owners make when trying to increase retentionThe #1 activity that most strongly impacts member retention (based on real data)Why orientation and onboarding matter more than gamification, discounts, or bonusesWhat a strong onboarding experience actually needs to include When members complete your orientation, they’re much more likely to stay in the first three months. So instead of adding more perks, focus on strengthening the beginning of their experience. A strong orientation helps them feel confident they’re in the right place, believe they can succeed, and know exactly what to do next. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    5 min

  2. MAR 24

    How Your Marketing is Sabotaging Your Retention Efforts

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members If you’re a membership owner doing all the “right” things for retention - systems in place, onboarding mapped out, training completed - but your churn is still high, this episode is for you. In this highlight conversation with Melinda Cohen, they unpack the one thing that quietly sabotages retention efforts and it has nothing to do with retention strategies themselves. It’s about motivation, onboarding, and how marketing can’t stop once someone joins your program. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why strong retention systems still fail without sustained motivationThe real reason onboarding is so critical (hint: it’s about capitalizing on momentum)How the Progress Wheel helps members reconnect with purpose and see forward motionWhy extrinsic motivation (rewards, gamification) backfires over timeHow to use your original marketing language inside your membershipWhy members falling off is normal—and how to normalize getting back on track Retention doesn’t improve when you push harder - it improves when you reconnect members to why they joined in the first place. Motivation and action must move together, and your job is to make that next step feel simple, doable, and worth it. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    5 min

  3. MAR 17

    The Best Community Platform for Your Membership

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members Choosing the right community platform can feel overwhelming with so many options available. In this episode, Shana breaks down a practical and strategic approach to help you confidently choose the community platform that aligns with your purpose, your audience, and your long-term goals. Instead of chasing shiny features or copying what others are using, you’ll learn how to make a decision that truly supports your community and business. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why a community platform is just a tool - and not the community itselfHow to clearly define the purpose of your community before choosing a platformThe difference between “must-have” and “nice-to-have” featuresHow to conduct a needs assessment based on both current and future growth. There is no perfect community platform - only the one that best fits your unique needs. By getting clear on your purpose, prioritizing what matters most, and thinking long-term, you can avoid costly mistakes and build a community that truly thrives. Take the time to evaluate wisely, and you’ll set yourself up for sustainable growth and meaningful connection. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    13 min

  4. MAR 10

    How to Design a Live Event Experience

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members Ep 138 - Designing Unforgettable Live Event Experiences with Phil Mershon https://www.shanalynn.com/podcast/designing-unforgettable-live-event-experiences-with-phil-mershon Shana talks a lot about member journeys when it comes to memberships and for good reason. In fact, her entire Retain Group consulting program is focused on creating incredible member journeys. But what many people overlook is that events need a customer journey too. In this episode, Shana highlights a powerful conversation with Phil Mershon, event experience expert. Phil shares how to think about events the same way we think about memberships and courses: as a thoughtfully crafted journey designed for a specific audience. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why an event’s customer journey starts the moment someone buys a ticketHow events are similar to memberships and course experiencesWhat most events get wrong about community and connectionWhy people come for the content - but stay for the communityHow first impressions at an event can make or break the entire experienceIf you want your events to be unforgettable, you have to think beyond the agenda and start designing the journey. When people feel welcomed, connected, and part of something bigger, they don’t just attend your event - they remember it, talk about it, and come back for more. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    9 min

  5. MAR 2

    Should I Include Everything in My Membership?

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members On a recent Q&A, Shana answered a question she gets all the time - and one that comes up often for many business owners with memberships: If you have lots of programs, should everything be included in your membership? It’s tempting to want to give members everything. Members often feel like they should get access to everything, too. But is that actually the best strategy for your business? In this episode, we break down why including everything inside your membership may not be sustainable - and what to do instead.  In this episode, you’ll learn: Why including all programs inside your membership can hurt profitabilityThe difference between rewarding members and restricting your offersHow to use first access as a powerful (and simple) marketing strategyWhy first access works for both members and your email listHow to offer member discounts without underpricing your programs Your membership should feel valuable without limiting your growth. By offering members first access, a discount, or both, you reward loyalty while keeping your offers profitable. This approach gives you flexibility, helps you fill spots, and supports long-term sustainability in your business. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    3 min

  6. FEB 24

    Why You’re Not Moving Forward

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members Ep 60 - How to Have Raving Fans and Lead a Meaningful Community with Lauren Golden https://www.shanalynn.com/podcast/how-to-have-raving-fans-and-lead-a-meaningful-community-with-lauren-golden Have you ever felt a calling to start something meaningful—but didn’t know where to begin?  In this episode, Shana sits down with Lauren Golden, founder of the Free Mama Movement, to talk honestly about fear, confidence, and what it really takes to build a movement from the ground up. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why feeling “not ready” doesn’t mean you’re not calledHow confidence is built through action, not waitingWhy your first idea doesn’t have to be your forever ideaHow fear of regret can be a powerful motivatorThe importance of starting small and talking about your visionWhy “unfinished” projects are not a waste of time That calling you keep feeling isn’t random—and it’s not going away. This episode is an invitation to stop waiting for permission and start nurturing the idea that’s been placed on your heart. Small steps, imperfect starts, and many mini wins can lead to something far bigger than you ever imagined. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    6 min

  7. FEB 17

    The Cancellation Process Fix That Boosts Retention and Reputation

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members When it comes to memberships, most business owners focus heavily on the sales and onboarding experience—but the cancellation process often gets ignored. In this episode, we talk about why hiding your cancellation button actually hurts your business, your brand, and your long-term growth. Using real client experiences, we break down how the cancellation process acts as the final “bookend” of the membership journey and why it deserves just as much intention as the front end. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why making cancellation difficult creates more problems than it solvesHow hidden cancellation buttons negatively impact trust and customer experienceThe legal considerations membership owners need to be aware of, including state regulations that require easy cancellationHow a thoughtful cancellation process can provide valuable feedback and insightsWhy cancellations are often missed opportunities for retention and re-engagementHow your exit experience shapes how members remember your brand Don’t hide the cancellation button. Use it strategically. Treat canceled members as alumni, not lost customers. With the right approach, your cancellation process can become a powerful tool for insight, retention, and brand loyalty. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    12 min

  8. FEB 10

    The Launch Strategy that 3x’ed Her Membership

    https://www.retainguide.com/ - Get Instant Access to The Membership Retention Roadmap: 5 Systems You Need to Keep More Members Ep 135 - More than 40% Conversion and 3X Members in 1 Launch with Ali Kay https://www.shanalynn.com/podcast/more-than-40-conversion-and-3x-members-in-1-launch-with-ali-kay What does it really take to triple a membership in a single launch—without relying on hype or burning out your audience? In this highlight episode, Shana sits down with Ali Kay to unpack the exact launch strategy that took Ali’s membership from 1,400 to over 4,400 members in just nine days. What started as a $10 paid workshop turned into a powerful growth engine built on trust, community, and intentional connection. In this episode, you’ll learn: How a $10 paid workshop can outperform a free challenge when launching a membershipWhy breaking even on ads before opening the cart can put you ahead from day oneThe power of showcasing your existing members as your strongest advocatesHow to “seed” your membership early and often without turning people offWhy teaching live for a week created massive trust, connection, and momentum Whether you’re planning your first membership launch or refining an existing one, this episode offers practical insights into building trust, scaling sustainably, and creating an experience people want to stay in. Additional Resources: Want expert help mapping out your member journey and setting up feedback loops that actually work? Apply for my high-level membership consulting program, Retain: https://joinretain.com Listen on the go? Subscribe to the podcast for more membership retention strategies: Apple, or Spotify Make sure to subscribe for more strategies on keeping members engaged and growing your recurring revenue! Learn how to work with Shana: https://www.shanalynn.com/ Learn more about Shana’s Community Training Program: https://www.shanalynn.com/cultivate Connect with Shana: https://www.instagram.com/shanaspeaks Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@communitycultivated

    10 min
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5
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Entrepreneurs and online business owners can no longer grow with great marketing alone. If you want to scale your course, membership, or coaching program, I’ll teach you how to maximize your profit and multiply your impact by creating a thriving online community. Be sure to connect with me on IG: http://instagram.com/shanaspeaks I’ve spent over a decade working with top brands and entrepreneurs to cultivate thriving online communities and empowered community teams that increase their reach, retention, and revenue. This podcast is a space for community creators like you and me to share our insights, best practices, and what’s working now in the community space. You’ll discover proven strategies, actionable tactics, and innovative ideas that you and your team can use to reduce refunds and increase retention. You won’t want to miss an episode! Subscribe now and let’s get started! Show notes & more: https://ShanaLynn.com

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