Pat Flynn - Apple Podcasts

The Smart Passive Income Online Business and Blogging Podcast

The Smart Passive Income Online Business and Blogging Podcast

Pat Flynn
AskPat 2.0: A Weekly Coaching Call on Online Business, Blogging, Marketing, and Lifestyle Design

AskPat 2.0: A Weekly Coaching Call on Online Business, Blogging, Marketing, and Lifestyle Design

Pat Flynn

4D AGO

Going Live to Supercharge Your Audience Growth (with Mariane Cresp)

#918 Big vanity numbers don't always build big businesses. That's why going viral should never be our main goal online. Instead, it's all about fostering superfans and redirecting the attention we get toward meaningful interactions! I'm chatting with Mariane Cresp to bring this point home today. She's an absolute expert at using her reach to inspire a deep sense of community among her followers. I'm especially impressed by how she leverages live streaming and tools like Ecamm Live for next-level connection with her niche audience, all while being authentic and relatable. [affiliate link] Mariane explains each step of her process, from getting targeted views to bringing people into her product ecosystem. She shares how to avoid getting overwhelmed as a beginner, how to keep going on the boring days, the importance of taking imperfect action, why you shouldn't get stuck in the learning phase, and more. Tune in for my incredible chat with Mariane! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session918. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

34 min
6D AGO

We Sold Our Company… Here’s What No One Tells You (with Caleb Wojcik)

#917 What does it feel like to let go of a business you love, one you started with a close friend? Is selling the right move when you know your focus has shifted? In this episode, we'll share a behind-the-scenes look at an especially meaningful exit. I’m joined by my friend, SPI CEO, and business partner Caleb Wojcik as we officially announce the sale of SwitchPod. That's right, the time has come to get out of the physical product space. Caleb and I share the exact circumstances that informed our decision as we look back at how and why we created a camera tripod in the first place. From rough prototypes and flying out to China to crowdfunding success and beyond, we'll share everything leading up to the big sale. If you've ever considered getting into physical products or want to prepare your business for a potential acquisition, don't miss this bittersweet session! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session917. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

26 min
FEB 25

How Two Moms Went from Garage Dancing to 30,000 Paid Students (with the Shuffle Mamas)

#916 Being real, sharing your journey, creating consistently, and repurposing your content across multiple platforms are tips I share all the time. But what are the actual results you can get if you finally put yourself out there? Today's episode shines a light on a perfect example of taking action daily. That's because I'm joined by the incredible Shuffle Mamas, Christina Reynolds and Anna Blanc, for an awesome behind-the-scenes look at their success story! Christina and Anna are short-form masters who have grown a major business around their passion for shuffle dancing. Before everyone was talking about authenticity, these Kansas City mothers were already posting their journey as complete beginners, bringing people along for the ride as they developed their skills. Now, they share the joy with the tens of thousands of students enrolled in their dance courses. This is truly what expert brand building looks like in 2026. Tune in! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session916. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

27 min
FEB 18

2026 Marketing Trends You Better Not Miss

#915 If you're still running your business like it's 2025, you're missing out on massive opportunities. Nano niches, live stream shopping, and zero-click marketing are part of the next wave of strategies powering online growth. You're still ahead of the curve if you tune in today, though. That's because, by the end of this episode, you'll know exactly where to focus your efforts, what you need to stop doing right now, and how to position yourself for big wins! I'll dive into the key steps of building a comprehensive social media strategy that serves and scales on the spot and in real-time. And you don't need to wait until you have something like 10,000 followers to start monetizing, either. From dos and don'ts to developing premium skills, I cover it all in this session. Join me to beat the crowd and master digital marketing in 2026! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session915. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

28 min
FEB 11

Why Online Business Is So Different Now

#914 Everything has changed. That's my answer to the question of how the world of online business is today versus how it was when I started. Of course, that was in 2008. But my answer is actually the same if I were to compare right now to this time last year. That's why we have a big change coming at SPI! Listen in on today's session because I need to address the "passive income" elephant in the room. Don't get me wrong, not trading your time for money is still a valid goal to shoot for in business. That said, certain terms associated with this concept have developed a scammy connotation. So tune in to hear how this is all contributing to my shift in a new direction! The big change is right around the corner, so join me to hear about my renewed focus on helping you build a business around your superfans! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session914. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

25 min
JAN 28

The 2030s Will Be the New Renaissance (And What This Means for You)

#912 Perfection is out. Authenticity is in. As the world is flooded with polished content and AI noise, this is becoming increasingly true every day. That's why the more you edit yourself, the more you'll blend in. It's also why, if you show your real self, you'll stand out and attract a community of superfans! So how do you fight back against the slop and build a personal brand? In this episode, I look at the countermovement emerging in response to our artificial modern landscape. In fact, my inspiration for this episode comes from Medieval Mindset on YouTube labeling this as the Second Renaissance. I love that idea because it means that now is the best time to show up and lead the charge. You'd do exactly that by participating in something like my 30-day video challenge. So tune in because, when you don't overproduce, reality seeps in and you attract the right people! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session912. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

16 min
FEB 4

Don't Give Up Yet

#913 We're more connected than ever, yet something like getting coffee with a friend feels nostalgic. Playing videogames in the same room with another person feels nostalgic. This is a weird thing to say in an age where we have instant access to everything and everyone. So how do we leverage our modern tools to combat disconnection and bring people together both online and in person? In this episode, I share the story behind my Podfest keynote and the lessons learned from not having things go according to plan. I stepped outside my comfort zone, only to come out with an even deeper appreciation for community and in-person events on the other end. I'm also diving into some of the results I'm seeing from people currently participating in our 30-day video challenge. There are definitely interesting patterns emerging and some important dos and don'ts that separate people reaching milestones from those who are struggling. Tune in! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session913. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

26 min
JAN 21

The Master Guide to Instagram Growth with Brock Johnson

#911 Instagram stands out as maybe the top platform for converting attention into sales. That said, alternating Reels, Stories, carousel posts, DMs, and everything else is confusing. What does a good content strategy on this app even look like? In this episode, I'm joined by Instagram master Brock Johnson to answer that question! We discuss what you should focus 80% of your creative drive on, the optimal post schedule, the top content formats for 2026, automating monetization, and more. Brock and I cover most of what you need to set yourself up for success and avoid the mistakes that can stop your profile from taking off. Informed by interviews he's hosted with the heads of Instagram and Instagram for Business, Brock's insights come from the very top. He delivers an absolute masterclass on turning strangers who might come across your Reels into superfans who watch your Stories, DM you, and buy from you. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session911. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

34 min
JAN 14

My HOOKS Formula Will Fix Your Reach

#910 What if I said your decision to listen in on today's episode will determine your success or failure as a creator? In a split second, you're making up your mind on whether this session is worth your time or not. That's also the exact thought process your audience members go through every time they come across your content. In 2026, this is why your hooks make or break your reach and engagement online! Not optimizing the first moments you have with a potential viewer, reader, or listener is a major disadvantage in the age of distraction. That's why I want to walk you through my powerful HOOKS formula today. This is the step-by-step process I use to fix my content, create curiosity, trigger emotion, and connect with the right people. I have plenty of examples to inspire you and elevate your posts, so don't miss out. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session910. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

25 min
JAN 7

Is Value-Based Content Dead?

#909 This is how to gauge if something is worth posting. If people can get the same information from ChatGPT, your content isn't good enough! That's because what worked in the past doesn't cut it anymore. Tips, tricks, and how-tos are everywhere. And now, AI models are eating up our knowledge and sharing it with no intention of ever driving traffic to real creators. So, what is the key to audience growth in 2026? How do we build brands that stand out in the age of AI? And essentially, how do we not get replaced? In today's episode, I address these questions and share the mindset shift required to create content with viral potential. Listen in, and don't miss the opportunity to take action right away with my free 30-day video challenge. This is the best way to start posting and go into the New Year winning! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session909. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

22 min
12/24/2025

Six Steps to Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet

#907 What do you want to achieve? Figuring this out in exact terms is part one of this six-step goal design session. If you follow me through this powerful exercise, you'll have a clear roadmap on how to double your success in 2026. I'm not just talking about your business targets, either. From entrepreneurship to physical health, you can leverage today's episode to crush any goal and have your best year ever! I'll especially want you to uncover and go deep on your top three goals using the SMART system. You'll zero in on your first steps and the triggers that will support you in taking real action. And if you've been keeping an eye on my Lean Learning content this year, you know that's all you need to get moving. You don't have to have everything figured out on day one to win big! So listen in to create your blueprint for a successful 2026! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session907. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

25 min
12/17/2025

Easy Rules for Crafting Challenges That Convert

#906 Quick wins and small steps create massive results. Still, how do we take that all-important first leap when faced with big projects? In this episode, I share why challenges stand out as one of the most powerful tools that help people move toward their goals. For years, I've watched students consume content and buy courses without ever taking real action. That's when I started pairing my educational content with challenges, and it made all the difference. I was finally able to inspire people to act! Today, I want to help you do the same for your followers. Don't miss this session because I discuss the seven rules of crafting effective challenges! From setting achievable targets to celebrating wins, I'll cover everything in this episode. I'll also share a first look at my upcoming short-form video challenge. Thousands of people have been asking for help with TikTok, Shorts, and Reels, so this is my way of making it easy to turn strangers into superfans on these platforms. Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session906. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

31 min
11/19/2025

How to Turn Your Following Into Revenue (At All Levels)

#902 I just earned $40,000 in four days selling t-shirts! That's bananas, but these are the kinds of things you can expect to happen if you focus on building true superfans. From day one, you can follow my system and start generating income from your passion. From ad revenue and affiliate marketing at the casual level to VIP experiences and five-figure consulting gigs at the top of the audience growth pyramid, I cover it all in today's session. This is not about chasing vanity numbers and buying fake subscribers, either. None of that stuff matters! The Superfans system is the key to building real connections online in the age of AI. One experience for a top follower can outweigh hundreds of small sales, so tune in for a look at the opportunities available to you right now. I know you haven't even considered some of these methods yet, so don't miss this episode! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session902. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

25 min
12/10/2025

I’m Ready to Share the Short-Form Formula for Viral Growth!

#905 Short-form video is dominating the internet. If you're sitting this one out and dismissing it as a passing trend, you're missing out on the easiest opportunity to generate views, build an audience, and grow your business! The barrier to entry is at an all-time low right now. As a father and entrepreneur with zero extra hours, I'm able to sneak in daily posts on Shorts, TikTok, and Instagram Reels. No fancy edits. No overthinking. So, how do you follow in my footsteps and uplevel your brand like never before? I've boiled it all down for you and made it available in my new Short-Form Formula course. Listen in on today's episode to get a peek at my system! This is the exact workflow I use to show up online without burning out, and it gives you access to the fastest opportunity to succeed online today. So tune in now to make 2026 your strongest year yet! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session905. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

22 min
12/31/2025

This Is How You Know If You’ll Win or Quit in 2026

#908 Like me, thousands of people started online businesses after getting laid off in 2008. In fact, there were hundreds of us specifically teaching entrepreneurship around that time. But why am I one of the few who are still around in this space now? The answer is actually really simple. I just never stopped showing up. That's right. For the most part, talent and luck will never beat consistency. It's the one thing we have complete control over and the top factor that determines if we succeed or fail. That's why today's episode contains a hard truth you need to hear. As we're going into 2026, I'll give you the tough love that can help you avoid quitting too soon. So don't miss this session and my 30-day video challenge for a chance to prove you have the persistence it takes to succeed! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session908. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

23 min
10/31/2025

It Only Takes 67 Days to Win Big with Dr. Shannon Irvine

#899 Here's the thing. No amount of learning about strategy will help your business take off until you drop your limiting beliefs. And there's nothing woo-woo about getting your mindset primed for success, either. It's all in the science of how our brains work! Setting and achieving goals is about thinking differently. That's why I'm very happy to have Dr. Shannon Irvine back on the show to share insights from her book, 67 Day Year. If you've ever felt like you're flooring the gas pedal but not getting anywhere, this is the session to help you move forward! In this episode, Dr. Shannon breaks down how to unlock your brain’s true potential and make success your default setting. We discuss overcoming invisible mindset barriers, beating your subconscious at its own game, why sixty-seven days can change your life, and how to follow through on your goals. Listen in for a perspective shift to help you take control! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session899. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

33 min
12/03/2025

The Hero Platform Strategy: How to Grow on Social Without Spreading Yourself Thin

#904 I'm now a big fan of short-form video for entrepreneurs, despite my initial skepticism. For the best results, though, you should take advantage of multiple platforms at once. But how do you show up everywhere without burning yourself out? In this episode, I'm chatting with online video pioneer Gideon Shalwick. He is the creator of Vubli, a tool that enables you to automate posting videos to YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and more. [affiliate link] This is a huge time saver because Vubli doesn't just schedule posts for you. It generates titles, descriptions, thumbnails, and tags, removing the friction that stops many of us from posting consistently. Listen in because Gideon and I dive into the most effective strategies to help you win big with short-form content. We discuss finding your hero platform, debunk myths about using third-party tools and posting daily, and get into the importance of engaging with your audience at peak times. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session904. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

48 min
10/22/2025

Why We Need to Forget About Retirement

We all know it’s smart to save and invest for retirement, right? But what happens if you reach 65, having sacrificed your health and relationships to hit an arbitrary number in your account? Here's the thing. The traditional idea of retirement might not work for you. In fact, the system might be broken and was never designed to truly reward you for your contribution in the first place. That's why we're challenging the norm in today's powerful episode with my guest, Derek Coburn. His book Let's Retire Retirement, co-authored with Sara Stibitz, offers a game-changing mindset shift for building a secure financial future without compromising your present. Derek has the numbers to back him up and makes an incredible case for designing a career knowing you'll probably work beyond the age of 65. Listen in because understanding this might free up your income and enable you to enjoy life right now! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session897. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

38 min
08/27/2025

What's Working on Email Newsletters Right Now

#886 What if I told you that someone sharing vocabulary tips gets millions of email opens per month and makes seven figures? How about if I said someone's keto recipes for bodybuilders newsletter just earned them a new house in Malibu? Listen in on this session because a quiet email revolution is happening under the radar. Let's pull back the curtain on what’s working in 2025! First, forget the tactics from five years ago. I aim to share the playbook you can use to turn a basic newsletter into a thriving business in today's online landscape. I'll discuss finding the best hyper-niche topic to focus on, repurposing your newsletter for big growth, pairing the right ad and monetization strategies, the top tools for the job, and more. Onboarding, engagement, and retention are also covered to help you build a long-term income stream around your passion. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session886. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

35 min
11/05/2025

Why Superfans Are Still the Fastest Path to Success

#900 Before you even have them, building your business with your future superfans in mind is the secret to success. That’s what I’m diving into for this special milestone episode! 900 sessions in, the Superfans concept is still the number one idea behind my biggest wins. It’s helped me write a bestselling book, build communities around my work, and create brands that stand out and thrive. In the age of AI, this principle is more relevant than ever! So, what drives someone to become a superfan? In this episode, I walk you through the pyramid of fandom and share exactly how to turn casual followers into lifelong advocates. From speaking your audience’s language and providing quick wins to building community and showing up live, these simple actions can supercharge your brand's growth! If you’re ready to attract fans who'll stick around for the long run, don't miss this session! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session900. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

34 min