Cracking Copy

Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride
  • 5.0 (2)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY
Cracking Copy

Cracking Copy Is a marketing and copywriting podcast where we lift the lid on writing for business and read between the lines of effective copy. This is a podcast for creative entrepreneurs and savvy business owners who understand the value that great copy can bring to their bottom line. We dive into a different aspect of writing for business in each episode, debunk the myths about how we *should* write, and explore the ways that writing can be fun, conversational, and creative while also being high-impact for serious results. Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride are freelance copywriters with 30+ years of copywriting, PR and marketing experience between them. Focusing on relevant topics and giving you useful hints and tips, we aim to help you become better writers for your business.

  1. AI Copywriting Tools – A Game-Changer or Just a Gimmick?

    APR 17

    AI Copywriting Tools – A Game-Changer or Just a Gimmick?

    In this kickoff episode of our AI & Copywriting mini-series, expert copywriters Ella and Minnie explore the booming world of AI copywriting tools—like ChatGPT, Jasper, and Copy.ai—and unpack whether they’re truly revolutionary or just clever tech hype.   We dive into how generative AI has gone from novelty to necessity since 2022, with tools now streamlining content creation across websites, emails, and ads. But with rapid advancement comes real concerns: job displacement, intellectual property, and the ever-pressing question—can AI match human creativity?   Ella and Minnie explore the strengths of these tools (speed, efficiency, idea generation) alongside their flaws (lack of emotional intelligence, nuance, and originality). They test prompts live, showing how AI can be a great jumpstart—but often needs human refinement to truly shine.   We also cover popular AI writing tools like Claude, Deepseek, Writesonic, and Perplexity, offering tips on how to choose the right one based on your goals and budget.   The takeaway? It’s not “AI vs. human copywriters”—it’s “AI with human copywriters.” AI is a tool, not a replacement. Strategic, persuasive storytelling still relies on the human touch.   This episode sets the stage for the rest of our AI series, where we’ll dig into productivity, the human voice, ethical concerns, and how to future-proof your copywriting career.   Tune in, subscribe, and join us as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of copywriting and AI—together.   Contact us Please drop us a voice note at memo.fm/crackingcopy and let us know what you think or what topics you want us to cover.   Twitter @cracking_copy Facebook @crackingcopy    ➡️  Share this podcast with someone who’ll find it useful     You can also find us at:   Instagram: Ella Hoyos - @flurrymarketing Minnie McBride - @minnie__writes   LinkedIn: Ella Hoyos - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellahoyos Minnie McBride - https://www.linkedin.com/in/minniemcbride   Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride are co-hosts of this podcast.  We are professional copywriters and marketers.  We deep dive into a different aspect of copywriting in each ‘snack-sized’ episode so that we can help you become better writers for your business.   Sup...

    37 min
  2. Boost Efficiency: How Tech and Automation Work Hand-in-Hand with Copywriting

    APR 2

    Boost Efficiency: How Tech and Automation Work Hand-in-Hand with Copywriting

    In this episode, Ella is joined by tech automation expert Nicola Walsh, founder of This Mum Loves Tech, to explore how automation and AI can revolutionise not just business operations, but also copywriting workflows. The best written sales copy won't sell if the tech isn't set up correctly, the funnel is broken or the emails are not firing right. Copywriters know that they need to minimise friction in the sales process for best results. We need to make it as easy and seamless as possible for customers to complete the action we want them to do, whether that's sign up for a newsletter, download a freebie or place an order.  And while copywriters can sell the benefits of whats being sold, the tech underpins it all.  If a prospect wants to take the next step but finds that they can't, we can easily lose them. Nicola shares her favorite tools for scheduling, payments, and AI-assisted note-taking, as well as her strategies for growing a business on a budget. Whether you’re a busy business owner or a copywriter looking to streamline content creation, this episode is packed with brilliant nuggets of wisdom. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The benefits of using an online booking system to eliminate back-and-forth scheduling, freeing up time for writing and strategy. How automated payments can help copywriters and business owners get paid faster without constant follow-ups. The power of AI note-taking tools like Fathom and Otter for client calls, helping copywriters capture important details effortlessly. How Nicola uses AI tools like ChatGPT to repurpose content efficiently, turning transcripts into blog posts and show notes. Why automation is essential for business scalability—and how it can give copywriters more time for creativity. Nicola’s go-to tech stack for running a business affordably while maximizing efficiency. Resources & Tools Mentioned: Online booking tools: Calendly, TidyCal Payment integrations: Stripe, PayPal, ThriveCart AI note-takers: Fathom, Otter AI for content creation: ChatGPT Connect with Nicola: Join the This Mum Loves Tech Facebook community here Explore her membership and courses here Don’t Miss Our AI Copywriting Mini-Series!We’ve got an exciting series coming up all about AI tools for copywriters—stay tuned for expert tips on integrating AI in...

    40 min
  3. Backend Systems to Scale Your Copywriting Business

    MAR 20

    Backend Systems to Scale Your Copywriting Business

    Scaling a business isn’t just about landing more clients - it’s about having the right systems in place to support your growth without burning out. That’s why today, I’m speaking with Sandra Booker, the Fractional COO to the Copywriting elite, and a business choreography master who helps ambitious founders streamline their backend operations so they can scale sustainably—without chaos. If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly reinventing the wheel in your business, drowning in admin, or unsure how to delegate effectively, this episode is a must-listen. In this episode, Sandra and I cover: ✅ The mistakes that keeps copywriters stuck in feast-or-famine mode ✅ How to document workflows to free up your time and make hiring easier ✅ Simple tools (like Loom & AI-powered systems) that can automate and streamline your processes ✅ Why a time study could be your biggest growth accelerator ✅ The biggest scaling traps that entrepreneurs fall into—and how to avoid them If you’re ready to stop running your business on duct tape and start building a scalable, grown-up copywriting business, hit play now.  Don't forget to subscribe to Cracking Copy for more episodes filled with valuable tips and inspiration for writers in business. Resources Get your free 2 week Time Tracker study here. Contact Sandra Booker Visit Sandra's website at [sidekickcoo.com](http://sidekickcoo.com) and follow her on Instagram @sidekickcoo for more insights and resources. Contact us We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Please drop us a voice note at memo.fm/crackingcopy and let us know what topics you'd like us to cover next. Connect with us on social media: Instagram: Ella Hoyos - @flurrymarketing Minnie McBride - @minnie__writesTwitter: @cracking_copy Facebook: @crackingcopy ➡️ Share this podcast with someone who’ll find it useful!

    31 min
  4. Making Copy Accessible With Mindful Design

    FEB 6

    Making Copy Accessible With Mindful Design

    This episode of Cracking Copy focuses on the importance of creating marketing materials with consideration for accessibility, user experience (UX) and neurodiversity.   Ella talks to Caroline Vermeulen, a graphic designer and branding specialist. Caroline’s work in accessibility, including experience with visual impairments, colour blindness, dyslexia, and learning about endometriosis and ADHD, has shaped her approach to design. These experiences fuelled her empathy and reinforced her belief in designing with intention.   Understanding accessibility and knowledge-sharing between a symbiotic relationship of designer, copywriter and business owner, can ensure inclusive design practices are easily implemented. So if you’re not already putting mindful design into action, this episode may be a lightbulb moment.   Let us know what you think about this episode or if you have any questions get in touch with Caroline, Ella or Minnie via the contact channels below.   Don't forget to subscribe to Cracking Copy for more episodes filled with golden nuggets and inspiration for writers in business.  Contact Caroline   https://mysteryhare.com/   Caroline Vermeulen Graphic Designer  |  Brand Specialist   |  caroline@mysteryhare.com  |  07525 246 734  |  mysteryhare.com Contact Caroline by email here Contact us Please drop us a voice note at memo.fm/crackingcopy and let us know what you think or what topics you want us to cover.   Twitter @cracking_copy Facebook @crackingcopy    ➡️  Share this podcast with someone who’ll find it useful     You can also find us at:   Instagram: Ella Hoyos - @flurrymarketing Minnie McBride - @minnie__writes   LinkedIn: Ella Hoyos -

    37 min
  5. Talk Their Talk: Ditch the Jargon to Win Customer Connection

    JAN 22

    Talk Their Talk: Ditch the Jargon to Win Customer Connection

    Picture this: you're slumped in your cubicle, encased by soul-crushing blue felt walls, staring at a blank screen. Another day, another thrilling attempt to “leverage a strategic approach” to funnel leads and convert them into buyers of your iconic English Test product.   Now scrap that depressing scene - rip it up and bin it!  Because some companies? They do things differently...   Ella Hoyos welcomes Rachel Exton, Vice President of Marketing at Pearson, to Cracking Copy talk about the transformation that comes from ditching corporate speak and tuning in with the natural language of your customers.   Rachel shares her inspiring journey from Dyson to Pearson and delves into the mission of making English language learning accessible worldwide. Discover how Rachel's passion for storytelling and simple, relatable language drives engagement and conversion.   In this episode, Rachel discusses the power of reframing marketing jargon into consumer-friendly language, drawing from her experiences at Pearson. You’ll hear about the innovative 'help me discover, choose, buy, stay' model and its impact on creating genuine connections with consumers.    Rachel also shares insights into the transformative shift from calls to action to calls to outcome, highlighting the importance of putting the consumer first.   Whether you're a small business owner or part of a large corporate team, Rachel's practical tips on storytelling, market research, and simplifying strategies offer valuable takeaways for all. Tune in to explore how universal principles of effective communication can be applied across different scales and industries. Don't forget to subscribe to Cracking Copy for more episodes filled with golden nuggets and inspiration for writers in business. Stay tuned for future episodes by hitting subscribe and check out our show notes for additional resources. Contact Rachel Exton    Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-exton-56796b2b/ Contact us Please drop us a voice note at memo.fm/crackingcopy and let us know what you think or what topics you want us to cover.   Twitter @cracking_copy Facebook @crackingcopy    ➡️  Share this podcast with someone who’ll find it useful     You can also find us at:   Instagram: Ella Hoyos - @flurrymarketing Minnie McBride -

    30 min
  6. 7 Copy Checkpoints to Optimise Your Web Copy

    12/12/2024

    7 Copy Checkpoints to Optimise Your Web Copy

    In Episode 4 of our mini-series on writing copy for your website, Ella Hoyos talks with Linda Melone, an award-winning health and fitness copywriter. Linda shares her journey of crafting and optimizing website copy, emphasizing the importance of treating writing and editing as separate processes.    Together, they explore seven essential copy checkpoints to ensure your content is polished and ready to publish.   Listen as we delve into the nuances of editing copy, the impact of clichés, and the art of maintaining voice and tone consistency. Discover how to make your copy clear, engaging, and conversion-ready. Linda also shares insights from her extensive career, offering practical tips and takeaways for creative entrepreneurs and savvy business owners looking to enhance their copywriting skills.   - Introduction to Linda Malone and her journey in copywriting - The importance of separating writing and editing processes - Seven copy checkpoints for effective editing - The impact of clichés and maintaining originality - Ensuring clarity and consistency in voice and tone - Using testimonials and emotional triggers for engagement - Structuring your website for optimal user experience - Linda's resources and services for copy optimization   Be sure to subscribe to Cracking Copy for more episodes filled with expert advice and writing inspiration.   Contact Linda   Connect with Linda Melone on LinkedIn Explore her website, The Copy Worx https://thecopyworx.com, for more insights and free resources   Contact us Please drop us a voice note at memo.fm/crackingcopy and let us know what you think of this episode, or what topics you'd like to hear about.Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride are co-hosts of this podcast.  We are professional copywriters and marketers.  We deep dive into a different aspect of copywriting in each ‘snack-sized’ episode so that we can help you become better writers for your business. Hang out with us on social, here: Ella Hoyos - @flurrymarketing Minnie McBride - @minnie__writes Ella Hoyos - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellahoyos Minnie McBride - https://www.linkedin.com/in/minniemcbride Twitter @cracking_copy Facebook @crackingcopy    ➡️  Share this podcast with someone who’ll find it useful     Support this podcast!   If you found this episode helpful you can show your appreciation by making a

    31 min
  7. Maximising The Success Of Your Three Essential Website Pages

    11/22/2024

    Maximising The Success Of Your Three Essential Website Pages

    Welcome to Episode 3 in our writing for websites series. In this episode we are looking at the three essential pages of your website. The welcome or home page, your about page and the contact page.   This episode follows on from our previous 2 episodes in this series.   Every company is different so the pages will vary from business to business but there are three pages that are really non negotiable for any business whether you are product, service, community or resources website..   The three essential pages are:   The Welcome/Home page The nerve centre of your site How can you make it informative, compelling and generate leads?   Your About Page Your secret weapon - what’s the secret to writing a killer About Page?    Your Contact Page. Why just a link isn’t enough. How can you make it a converting page?   Are you making the most of these pages? If you are looking for tips on how best to maximise the effectiveness of your website then this episode is for you.   Resources    Cracking Copy Episode on storytelling with bestselling author of The Business of Stories, Susan Payton - Unlock the Power of Storytelling for your business (August 2023)   To combine the personalised touch of human face-to-face interactions with the efficiency of automation Ella mentioned VideoAsk as an option Contact us Please drop us a voice note at memo.fm/crackingcopy and let us know what you think or what topics you want us to cover.   Twitter @cracking_copy Facebook @crackingcopy    ➡️  Share this podcast with someone who’ll find it useful     You can also find us at:   Instagram: Ella Hoyos - @flurrymarketing Minnie McBride - @minnie__writes   LinkedIn: Ella Hoyos - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellahoyos Minnie McBride - https://www.linkedin.com/in/minniemcbride   Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride are co-hosts of this podcast.  We are professional copywriters and marketers.  We deep dive into a different aspect of copywriting in each ‘snack-sized’ episode so that we can help you become better writers for your business.   Support this podcast!   If you found this episode helpful you can show your appreciation by making a donation!  This helps offset the costs of producing the show and we’ll love you for it :)    Buy me a coffee

    37 min
  8. Websites That Appeal To Your Target Audience

    11/07/2024

    Websites That Appeal To Your Target Audience

    In this second episode in our Writing for Websites Series, we are going to give you some tips on how to ensure that the copy in your website will align with your target audience.   We will be covering   Revisiting your website’s purpose  Your target audience and how to craft your writing to different personas/decision makers The visitor journey through your website pages UX - User Experience User Testing and why this is a good idea Don’t forget, we’re going to release new episodes in this Writing for Websites Series fortnightly so don’t forget to hit subscribe to ensure you don’t miss an episode.   We will be deep diving into topics including SEO, User Experience, what you need to think about including in your essential pages and lots more. If you’re looking to revamp or completely redo your website THIS SERIES IS FOR YOU! Resources    Cracking Copy Episode with Claire Cunningham - UX Writing for a Great User Experience (January 2024)   Contact us Please drop us a voice note at memo.fm/crackingcopy and let us know what you think or what topics you want us to cover.   Twitter @cracking_copy Facebook @crackingcopy    ➡️  Share this podcast with someone who’ll find it useful     You can also find us at:   Instagram: Ella Hoyos - @flurrymarketing Minnie McBride - @minnie__writes   LinkedIn: Ella Hoyos - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellahoyos Minnie McBride - https://www.linkedin.com/in/minniemcbride   Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride are co-hosts of this podcast.  We are professional copywriters and marketers.  We deep dive into a different aspect of copywriting in each ‘snack-sized’ episode so that we can help you become better writers for your business.   Support this podcast!   If you found this episode helpful you can show your appreciation by making a donation!  This helps offset the costs of producing the show and we’ll love you for it :)    Buy me a coffee

    32 min
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    5
    out of 5
    2 Ratings

    About

    Cracking Copy Is a marketing and copywriting podcast where we lift the lid on writing for business and read between the lines of effective copy. This is a podcast for creative entrepreneurs and savvy business owners who understand the value that great copy can bring to their bottom line. We dive into a different aspect of writing for business in each episode, debunk the myths about how we *should* write, and explore the ways that writing can be fun, conversational, and creative while also being high-impact for serious results. Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride are freelance copywriters with 30+ years of copywriting, PR and marketing experience between them. Focusing on relevant topics and giving you useful hints and tips, we aim to help you become better writers for your business.

    Information

    • Creator
      Ella Hoyos and Minnie McBride
    • Years Active
      2022 - 2025
    • Episodes
      53
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © Ella Hoyos & Minnie McBride
    • Show Website
      Cracking Copy

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