Wisdom Journey

Wisdom

Follow my unfiltered, real-time journey as I navigate the world of online income. No fake success stories or get-rich-quick schemes – just honest documentation of wins, losses, and everything in between. Each episode captures my weekly experiments with different online business models: freelancing, digital products, affiliate marketing, and more. I share exact numbers, strategies that worked (and failed), and the brutal reality of building income Want to be a guest on Wisdom Journey? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/wisdom

  1. 17 SEPT.

    How to Track Marketing ROI for Brick-and-Mortar Stores – Redha Alayesh | Ep 66

    In today’s episode, I sat down with Redha Alayesh—a true data-driven marketer and entrepreneur out of Saudi Arabia. We dug deep into how data isn’t just about numbers and charts, but a powerful tool for actually driving growth in any business, big or small. Redha shared practical ways to start tracking what matters, even if you’re just getting started, and how to avoid some of the biggest mistakes folks make when claiming to be “data-driven.” We also got real about keeping your marketing human and creative, even in this world of pixels and analytics. I hope you walk away inspired to really look at your numbers—and your customers—with fresh eyes, and to use data as a guide, not a crutch. Thanks for listening and being on this wisdom journey with me! Connect with Redha Alayesh Website: https://redhaalayesh.com/ Twitter: https://x.com/redhaalayesh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ridha-alayesh/ I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters Intro & Guest Introduction[00:00:00] – [00:01:16] Discovering the Importance of Data in Marketing[00:01:16] – [00:04:06] Tracking Data in Traditional (Offline) Businesses[00:04:06] – [00:09:05] Common Mistakes in Data-Driven Marketing[00:09:05] – [00:15:28] How Small Businesses & Creators Can Start Leveraging Data[00:15:28] – [00:21:10] Balancing Data with Creativity & the Human Element[00:21:10] – [00:31:37] Beyond Numbers: Qualitative Data & Customer Research[00:31:37] – [00:35:01] Busy Work vs. Real Growth in Marketing Departments[00:35:01] – [00:38:33] Where to Find & Connect with Redha Alayesh[00:38:33] – [00:39:33] Outro & Final Thoughts[00:39:33] – [00:40:32]

    41 min
  2. 15 SEPT.

    Blending AI and Authenticity: Secrets to Thriving in Digital Business — Wes Towers | Ep 65

    In today’s episode, I sat down with Wes Towers, the brains behind Uplift360, to dive into the game-changing idea of “Search Everywhere Optimization.” We chatted about how the world of search has totally flipped—how people aren’t just Googling anymore, but looking for answers everywhere, even through AI tools like ChatGPT. Wes broke down why being clear, authentic, and uniquely human in your content matters now more than ever, especially when AI can crank out generic stuff by the bucketload. We talked practical tips for small businesses to stand out in the noisy online world, the importance of telling your own stories, and how to adapt (not panic!) as AI keeps evolving. I hope what you’ll take away is this: you don’t have to beat the bots—just be more you in how you show up online. Let’s keep growing together! Connect with Wes Towers Website: https://uplift360.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/westowers/ I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters & Timestamps 00:00:00 — Introduction: The Wisdom Journey and Guest Introduction00:01:08 — What is "Search Everywhere Optimization"?00:02:11 — How to Stand Out When AI Floods the Internet with Content00:03:37 — SE-OX vs. Traditional SEO: What's the Difference?00:05:20 — Adapting to Change & Owning Your Online Territory00:07:11 — AI Threats: Turning Fear into Opportunity00:09:43 — The Human Touch: Why Authenticity Wins00:12:04 — First Steps: Practical Advice for Small Business Websites00:14:03 — The Mindset Shift: Embracing the Search Everywhere Era00:17:20 — Common Website & Content Mistakes to Avoid00:19:52 — Learning from Failure: Why Automated Content Falls Flat00:23:08 — Balancing AI Tools and Human Creativity00:25:13 — Creating Unique Data & Industry Leadership00:27:17 — Favorite AI Tools for Business Growth00:29:01 — Bad SEO Advice: What to Watch Out For00:30:31 — Where Should Entrepreneurs Show Up Online?00:32:18 — How to Connect with Wes & Closing Remarks00:32:58 — Outro: Subscribe, Share & Keep Learning

    33 min
  3. 12 SEPT.

    How to Create Authentic Sales Pages That Convert — Cleoniki Kesidis | Ep 64

    In this episode, I sat down with Cleoniki Kesidis—copywriter, marketing strategist, and mompreneur—to unpack the real, messy truths about selling online courses and memberships. We got honest about what actually works (and what doesn’t), why authentic messaging is your superpower, and the importance of constant experimentation in marketing. Cleoniki shared how to diagnose why your course isn’t selling, tips for building sales pages that convert, and what shifting from one-on-one services to scalable programs really requires. We also dove into how to balance experimentation with limited time, and how being a parent shapes the way you approach business. If you’ve ever struggled to get your course off the ground, this conversation is packed with practical steps, mindset shifts, and a little bit of tough love. I hope it leaves you feeling encouraged to experiment, track your numbers, and always lead with your authentic self. Connect with Cleoniki Kesidis Website: https://cleonikikesidis.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/cleoniki.books/ I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters 00:00:00 – Introduction & About the Guest Wisdom introduces the Wisdom Journey podcast, sets the theme of the episode, and introduces Cleoniki Kesidis. 00:01:44 – Cleoniki’s Journey Into Copywriting & Marketing Cleoniki shares her unconventional path from science and technology to copywriting and helping creators. 00:03:12 – Turning Point as a Solopreneur Discussing the leap into solopreneurship and starting a "pandemic business". 00:04:28 – Why Authenticity and Experimentation Matter Cleoniki explains the importance of authenticity and experimentation for modern creators. 00:06:58 – Top 3 Mistakes Creators Make When Selling Courses Three biggest mistakes: messaging, systems, and not looking at data. 00:13:43 – Diagnosing What’s Wrong: Idea, Copy, or Strategy? How to identify where the problem is if a course isn’t selling. 00:18:26 – What Makes a Sales Page Convert? Cleoniki dives into practical and psychological aspects of crafting compelling sales pages. 00:23:34 – Sales Page Overload & The Power of Clarity The importance of clarity over cleverness and avoiding information overload. 00:24:42 – Evergreen vs. Live Launches: What to Consider Pros and cons of Evergreen and live launch strategies, especially for solopreneurs. 00:27:27 – Transitioning from 1:1 Services to Group Programs How marketing and messaging must change when moving to scalable offers. 00:30:35 – The Real Messy Truths of Selling Online The hard realities and myths around selling courses and the work it actually takes. 00:33:49 – Motherhood, Time, and Business Strategy How being a mom shapes Cleoniki’s approach to business and marketing. 00:35:34 – How to Experiment When Time Is Tight Advice for making smart, small experiments rather than big risky moves. 00:37:23 – Immediate Steps for Creators with Non-Selling Courses Three actionable steps to take this week if your course isn’t selling. 00:40:17 – Surprising Results from Marketing Experiments Cleoniki shares an example of a small experiment with interesting results. 00:41:51 – Future Opportunities: AI, Solopreneurs & Mompreneurs Discussion about AI’s impact and advice for authentic, effective use. 00:45:00 – Connect with Cleoniki & Wrap-Up How to connect with Cleoniki and final thoughts from both speakers.

    47 min
  4. 29 AOÛT

    Unlocking DTC Growth: Beauty Brand Success with Nikki Lindgren of Pennock Digital | Ep 63

    In today’s episode, I sat down with Nikki Lindgren, founder of Pennock Digital, and we took a deep dive into the real ins and outs of growing a successful e-commerce brand—especially in the beauty world. Nikki shared her journey from in-house marketer to agency leader, explained what brands get wrong (and right!) about launching and scaling, and gave some honest advice for creators looking to make their mark. We got into paid ads, the magic of earned media, testing creative on a budget, and when it’s actually time to turn ad spend up or down. My hope? That you walk away with a clearer sense of what success really looks like for digital brands and some practical next steps—whether you’re just launching or looking to scale. Thanks for listening and keep chasing that wisdom on your own journey! Connect with Nikki Lindgren Website: https://www.pennock.co/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilindgren/ I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters & Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction & Guest Welcome 00:00:42 – Nikki’s Background: In-House to Agency Life 00:03:38 – Early Client Work & Agency Approach 00:04:26 – What Drew Nikki to E-commerce and Digital Marketing 00:05:35 – Finding a Niche: Focusing on Beauty Brands 00:06:57 – Defining Success for Digital Brands in 2025 00:08:01 – Client Types: Large vs. Emerging Brands 00:09:26 – Biggest Mistakes When Launching an E-commerce Product 00:11:48 – When to Start Running Paid Ads 00:13:22 – Requirements for Achieving ROI on Paid Ads 00:15:08 – Low-Risk Testing of E-commerce Product Ideas 00:17:24 – What is Earned Media? 00:19:39 – Leveraging Existing Content for Paid & Organic 00:22:14 – Favorite Paid Ad Platforms & Why 00:24:38 – Budgeting for Paid Ads as a Beginner 00:26:06 – What Makes a Successful Ad Creative 00:28:32 – How to Test Ad Creatives Cost-Effectively 00:30:14 – Customer Success Stories & Case Studies 00:33:00 – Scaling Challenges & Agency/Brand Collaboration 00:35:14 – Small Brand Growth Stories 00:37:06 – Underutilized Growth Levers 00:38:36 – Deciding When to Scale Ad Spend Up or Down 00:39:42 – Key Tools & AI in Agency Operations 00:41:39 – Nikki’s Key Business Advice 00:43:01 – Where to Find Nikki & Learn More 00:43:28 – Nikki’s Podcast: The Pennock Knockdown 00:44:08 – Outro & Closing Remarks

    45 min
  5. 25 AOÛT

    How to Build Your Support System for Success: Insights from Phoebe Trotman | Ep 62

    In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the amazing Phoebe Trotman—a champion athlete, inspiring entrepreneur, and author of the “Never Quit on a Bad Day” book series. We dove deep into the realities of resilience, how setbacks (on the field or in life) can be a launchpad for growth, and why it’s so important not to throw in the towel when things get tough. Phoebe shared powerful stories about pushing through disappointment, building a solid support system, and staying consistent even when motivation runs low. She even read an excerpt from her book, which I know will motivate so many of you! My hope is that you walk away from this episode reminded that bumps in the road are just part of the journey—and often, they’re the best teachers. Stick with it, and don’t ever quit on a bad day! Connect with Phoebe Trotman Website:https://neverquitonabadday.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trotmanphebe/# I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters & Timestamps 00:00:00 – Introduction to Phoebe TrotmanHost Wisdom Okonkwo introduces Phoebe Trotman, her background as an athlete, entrepreneur, and author, and the theme of resilience. 00:01:10 – Phoebe’s Background & PurposePhoebe shares who she is, what she does, and her passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges. 00:01:48 – The Meaning Behind “Never Quit on a Bad Day”Phoebe explains why she chose that title for her book series and the lasting impact she hopes it will have. 00:03:06 – Lessons from Sports: Handling SetbacksPhoebe discusses how being cut from teams and losing games shaped her resilience and prepared her for entrepreneurship. 00:04:55 – Why Do People Quit on Bad Days?Exploration of the internal narratives and emotions driving people to quit and strategies for overcoming those impulses. 00:07:19 – Shifting Out of a Negative MindsetAdvice on what to do when you’re having a bad day or feeling creatively stuck. 00:10:01 – The Challenge of ConsistencyPhoebe’s background in sports, her achievements, and how consistency played a role in her success—plus advice for creators. 00:14:32 – Celebrating Wins & Learning from LossesHow to reframe failure and rejection, and the importance of mindset in both sports and business. 00:19:21 – A Personal Story: Overcoming the Urge to QuitPhoebe shares a pivotal story from her business journey when she felt like quitting and how she persevered. 00:23:24 – Building a Support SystemThe value of collaboration, masterminds, and accountability for solo creators and entrepreneurs. 00:26:18 – Why Creators Go It AloneDiscussion on scarcity mentality, trust, and the benefits of an abundance mindset. 00:27:49 – Advice for Lonely CreatorsHow to find your community, embrace the process, and stay motivated on your own journey. 00:30:53 – Knowing When to Push Through vs. RestHow to listen to your instincts and determine when it’s time for rest or active recovery. 00:32:34 – Daily Non-Negotiables for Mental StrengthPhoebe shares the habits that keep her mentally tough—workouts, prayer, gratitude, and positivity. 00:34:55 – Reading from “Never Quit on a Bad Day”Phoebe reads an excerpt from her book, sharing fellow athlete Julia Budd’s story and lessons on resilience. 00:38:55 – Audiobook & Podcast IdeasConversation about the potential for an audiobook or themed podcast series for the book. 00:40:34 – Final Words for Creators on the Verge of QuittingPhoebe’s direct advice for creators feeling like giving up: drilling down into your “why.” 00:42:53 – About the Book Series & Where to Find Phoebe 00:44:42 – Wrap-Up & Outro

    45 min
  6. 22 AOÛT

    How to Use the 5 Pillar Content Marketing Framework for Solopreneurs – With Mithyll Dave | Ep 61

    In this episode of Wisdom Journey, I sat down with Mithyll Dave—the digital coach and content alchemist behind V Tribe’s Content Lab. We went deep on what really matters in content creation: how to find your unique voice, the importance of telling your story, and Mithyll’s tried-and-true five pillar framework for building an authentic, organic brand. We talked about everything from harnessing the power of AI without losing your human touch, to turning followers into a true community that supports your business. My hope is that you walk away knowing you don’t need to chase trends or go viral to succeed—you just need your story, a clear strategy, and the courage to show up consistently. If you’re ready to make your passion profitable and build something real online, this one’s for you! Connect with Mithyll Dave Website: https://mithylldave.com/ Twitter: https://x.com/digitalmitthyl LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mithylldave/ I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters 00:00:00 – Introduction Host Wisdom Okonkwo introduces Mithyll Dave and sets the stage for the episode’s focus on content creation, branding, and business growth. 00:00:34 – Guest Introduction Mithyll Dave introduces himself and shares his mission, background, and focus on helping solopreneurs and creators with content marketing and branding. 00:01:51 – The Five Pillar Framework Overview Mithyll details his “Five Pillar Principle” for building a successful online brand: Content, Traffic, Lead Nurturing/Generation, Sales & Marketing, and Community Building. 00:04:03 – Deep Dive: Content Creation & Finding Your Audience Discussion on identifying your micro-niche, understanding your audience’s pain points, and crafting resonant content for the right platforms. 00:07:01 – Leveraging AI in Content Creation Advice on how to use AI as a tool while maintaining authenticity and the unique human brand story. 00:09:45 – Favorite Tools & Behind-the-Scenes Content Mithyll shares his go-to content creation tools, platforms, and emphasizes the importance of behind-the-scenes storytelling. 00:13:10 – From Content to Traffic How to turn engaging content into actual website or store traffic, and the importance of analytics and experimentation in the early stages. 00:22:56 – Lead Generation & Nurturing Strategies for capturing leads, nurturing audience relationships, and tools for automating the process. 00:30:46 – Sales & Marketing How nurturing leads ties into effective sales, authentic selling, and building customer trust. 00:35:56 – The Power of Community Building Why most stop at sales, the value of community, and actionable ideas for building engaged communities around your brand. 00:39:18 – Step-by-Step: Building a Community Practical steps and platforms (free & paid) for starting and sustaining an online community. 00:43:30 – Call to Action & Resources Mithyll shares how to connect with him, where to find his content and free resources, and closing thoughts from both guest and host.

    45 min
  7. 20 AOÛT

    How to Network Your Way Into Podcasting Opportunities | Marc Schmidt | Ep 60

    In this episode, I sat down with Marc Schmidt, podcast pro and the heart behind “Mark My Words.” We dug deep into Marc’s journey—from growing up with a cleft lip and palate, dealing with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, to embracing his authentic voice on camera and in life. Marc shared some powerful lessons about turning adversity into purpose, finding confidence even when others (or your own inner critic!) doubt you, and how important it is to just keep going—especially on those tough days. We also got real about personal sacrifices, handling criticism, and what success truly means. I hope Marc’s courage to share his story inspires you to quiet those limiting beliefs, bet on yourself, and keep creating, no matter what. Remember, your voice and story matter. Stay creative, keep seeking wisdom, and see you on the journey! Connect with Marc Schmidt Website: https://linktr.ee/Nimrod79 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nimrod79/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcaschmidt/ I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters & Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction to Marc Schmidt & Podcast Origin 00:01:29 – Choosing the Podcast Name 00:02:12 – The Secret to Catchy Podcast Names 00:03:35 – Marc’s Content Creation Journey 00:08:39 – Transition to Podcasting 00:09:01 – Support (or Lack Thereof) from Others 00:10:38 – Overcoming Self-Doubt and Internal Voices 00:11:34 – Building Self-Belief and Early Life Lessons 00:16:34 – Lessons from Five Years of Podcasting 00:20:40 – Developing Podcasting Skills Over Time 00:22:05 – Generating Episode Ideas & Guest Selection 00:24:05 – Podcast Publishing Frequency 00:24:47 – Pushing Through Self-Doubt 00:27:03 – Handling Criticism About His Voice 00:29:48 – Mindset and Growth as a Podcaster 00:30:16 – Promotion Strategies for Podcast Growth 00:32:45 – Monetization and Joining a Podcast Network 00:34:35 – Future Projections for Marc’s Podcast 00:37:23 – Rapid Fire Questions 00:41:09 – Milestones & Emotional Reflections 00:44:50 – Personal Sacrifices 00:47:01 – Redefining Success 00:49:33 – The Power of Storytelling & Inspiring Others 00:51:38 – Where to Find Marc Schmidt Online 00:52:47 – Episode Wrap-Up

    53 min
  8. 18 AOÛT

    How to Use Mindset to Achieve Financial Freedom (Step 1 Guide) | Ann Pells | Ep 59

    In today’s episode of Wisdom Journey, I sat down with Ann Pells—a real estate veteran and financial coach dedicated to helping families achieve true financial freedom. We got real about paying off your home in record time, starting a business (even when you feel you don’t have the skills or cash), and using what you already know to create real value. Ann shared simple, practical steps—like using other people’s money ethically, and why mindset is the first building block to success. What I hope you take away is this: you don’t have to have it all figured out or tons of money to get started. Ask questions, lean into what you’re good at, and remember—every skill you have could be someone else’s solution. Keep believing, keep learning, and go make something happen. Thanks for listening, and keep seeking wisdom on your journey! Connect with Ann Pells Website:https://lifegiverlegacy.com/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-pells I’m building an online business in public — sharing every win, setback, and “I can’t believe that happened” moment along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it really looks like to start from scratch, come along for the ride. Join the journey at https://wisdom.beehiiv.com/ Chapters 00:00:00 – Introduction & Guest Welcome 00:01:19 – Ann's Background and Fast Mortgage Payoff 00:01:33 – Using Other People's Money 00:03:01 – Finding Business Ideas with No Money 00:05:32 – How to Buy or Start a Business Without Capital 00:07:32 – Running a US-Based Business Remotely 00:09:34 – Leveraging Technology & Service-Based Businesses 00:11:17 – Asking the Right Questions to Understand Client Needs 00:13:13 – Turning Skills Into Business Opportunities 00:16:33 – Overcoming Fear of Delivering Results 00:18:02 – Under Promise, Over Deliver in Business 00:19:33 – Recommended Books & Learning Resources 00:19:57 – The Three Steps to Financial Freedom (Step 1: Mindset) 00:24:36 – Identifying Your “Second Nature” Skills 00:25:24 – Serving & Solving Problems for Others 00:26:50 – Gratitude, Giving Back & Impact 00:29:06 – Stories of Generosity & Earning to Give 00:29:42 – Finding & Partnering in Business Globally 00:32:33 – Celebrating Progress & Being Patient with Growth 00:33:04 – Ann’s Journey to Financial Freedom 00:35:25 – Starting Small and Solving Local Problems 00:36:07 – Final Advice & Encouragement 00:36:49 – Where to Find Ann Pells & Ebook Information 00:37:27 – Closing Remarks & How to Support the Podcast

    38 min
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À propos

Follow my unfiltered, real-time journey as I navigate the world of online income. No fake success stories or get-rich-quick schemes – just honest documentation of wins, losses, and everything in between. Each episode captures my weekly experiments with different online business models: freelancing, digital products, affiliate marketing, and more. I share exact numbers, strategies that worked (and failed), and the brutal reality of building income Want to be a guest on Wisdom Journey? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/wisdom