The Creative Bodega | Content Marketing and Instagram Growth for Solopreneurs

Em Connors
  • 5.0 (98)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Creative Bodega, a podcast about content marketing, Instagram growth, and personal branding designed specifically for female service-based solopreneurs.  Here, we believe you can confidently create engaging content, connect authentically with your audience, and convert followers into loyal customers — all without the burnout. Each week, host Em Connors shares actionable tips and expert advice to help YOU grow your business without letting it take over your life.  From how to spend less time on content creation and more time being strategic to overcoming the overwhelm of navigating tech updates and ever-changing trends, Em answers your toughest questions so you can serve your clients and show up as your best self. Life happens, so Em doesn’t hold back from sharing the unfiltered truth of what it’s like to run a multi-six-figure business and raise a family. In addition to sharing proven strategies straight from her own business, Em spotlights other successful female service providers to find out how they balance family and run a business while staying sane and prioritizing themselves in this crazy season of life.  If you’re ready to turn your content into clients alongside a community of women who understand the struggle, you’re in the right place. 

  1. 1D AGO

    54: Algorithm Fatigue? What ACTUALLY Makes People Follow & Unfollow (For Solopreneurs)

    Tired of feeling like the algorithm is punishing you for showing up? Same. In this episode of The Creative Bodega, I'm sharing the data-backed truth about what actually makes people follow, unfollow, and stop watching your content—and honestly, it's not what you think. Spoiler alert: it's not about posting more or having a perfectly polished feed. I'm breaking down five major myths that are keeping you stuck in the content creation hamster wheel, and I'm giving you the real numbers (from ManyChat's 2025 Creator Report) that prove useful, authentic content wins every single time. If you're exhausted from chasing trends and playing the algorithm games, this episode is your permission slip to stop performing and start connecting. Check out the full show notes for this episode HERE. Things I cover inside this episode: Why long intros are killing your engagement—and the exact way to lead with the answer insteadThe real reason people hit follow (hint: it's not your aesthetic, and 73% of people agree)What actually makes people unfollow you—and why posting frequency didn't even make the listWhy trends aren't the only growth strategy (and what 53% of people wish you'd do instead)How to choose content formats that give you energy instead of draining the life out of youResources & Links mentioned in the episode: ManyChat "Algorithm Fatigue: A 2025 Creator Report" - the full data-backed report I reference throughout this episode, with all the juicy stats on what makes people follow, unfollow, and engageConnect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    17 min

  2. FEB 2

    53: “Online Courses Are Dead”? What’s Actually Dying—And What’s Next (Doors Open)

    Amy Porterfield just discontinued Digital Course Academy—and the internet has thoughts. But here's what I think: online courses aren't dead. What's dying is the low-touch, "here's your login, good luck" model. In this episode of The Creative Bodega, I'm pulling back the curtain on why I think DCA closed, what the future of online education actually looks like, and how I've built my own programs (like The Visual Edit) to prioritize real support, accountability, and results. If you've ever felt burned by a course you bought or you're wondering how to create offers that actually help people succeed, this one's for you. *Check out the full show notes for this episode HERE. Things I cover inside this episode: Why Amy Porterfield really discontinued DCA—and the transparency piece that was missing from her announcementThe difference between low-touch courses that flop and high-touch programs that get results (hint: it's all about support and accountability)How I structure The Visual Edit for a 70%+ completion rate—including weekly calls, personalized feedback, and community accountabilityWhy my Black Friday course sale brought in $22,500 with zero built-in support (and what that says about trust and community)The exact elements that make online programs work in 2026: capped enrollment, hands-on coaching, and leadership (not just lectures)Resources & Links mentioned in the episode: Episode 49: Interview with The Visual Edit alumni, Emily—hear exactly how hands-on support transformed her business and confidenceThe Visual Edit DOORS ARE OPEN—my 6-week high-touch experience for creating a cohesive visual identity (doors open now with $300 off extended. Capped at 30 women! Doors close Friday, Feb 6th.MISSED This Round of TVE? Hop on the waitlist for the next round!Connect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    21 min

  3. JAN 26

    52: What's Happening Is Too Big to Ignore: Speaking Out & Still Launching Amid a Crisis

    Sometimes the hardest thing is to keep showing up when the world feels like it's falling apart. In this unedited (literally) episode of The Creative Bodega, I'm processing in real time what it means to stay visible in your business when everything outside your door feels completely wrong. I'm talking about the Minneapolis ICE raids, the fear people are experiencing, and why I'm moving forward with the launch of The Visual Edit even though it feels weird and uncomfortable. If you've ever struggled with whether to speak up, stay silent, or keep working when the world is heavy—this one's for you. Check out the full show notes for this episode HERE. Things I cover inside this episode: Why I've historically stayed silent on social media and how being an Enneagram 9 has shaped my need to avoid conflictThe moment I decided I couldn't stay quiet anymore—even knowing I'd lose followers and face criticismHow to hold space for heartbreak AND still show up for your business when you're the main providerWhat it means to find your people by saying the hard stuff, even when your voice shakesWhy launching during difficult times doesn't mean you don't care—and how to navigate that tension with integrityResources & Links mentioned in the episode: The Visual Edit DOORS ARE OPEN—my 6-week high-touch experience for creating a cohesive visual identity (doors open now with $300 off for the first 48 hours ONLY - soooo until Wednesday, Jan 28th @ 6 am EST). Only 30 spots available!Episode 49: Interview with The Visual Edit alumni, Emily—hear exactly how hands-on support transformed her business and confidenceConnect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    13 min

  4. JAN 19

    51: 6 Instagram Post Musts for 2026 That Actually Work (For Solopreneurs)

    Drowning in "new algorithm" posts and conflicting advice about what you must do in 2026? Let's be real: you don't need a total content overhaul. In this episode of The Creative Bodega, I'm breaking down the six things that actually matter for service-based solopreneurs this year—and spoiler alert, it's not about posting more or buying fancy equipment. I'm sharing what's worked for me since 2020 (yes, the same strategy), why fewer high-intent posts beat constant posting, and how to stay visible without burning out. If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the content noise out there, this episode will help you breathe easier and focus on what actually moves the needle. Check out the full show notes for this episode CLICK HERE. Things I cover inside this episode: Why people over information is the real strategy—and how to make your content defensible in a world where anyone can Google the "what"The truth about AI in content creation: how I use it for speed without sacrificing personality (and why I almost bought a $1,200 camera but didn't)How fewer, high-intent posts consistently outperform constant posting—plus my exact carousel strategy that reached 58K peopleWhy recurring series are your secret weapon for building momentum and inside jokes with your audience (with a low-effort tip jar method you'll love)The visibility micro-actions that prevent your business from fading slowly—because invisibility is expensive, my friendResources & Links mentioned in the episode: Get on the VIP waitlist for The Visual Edit (doors open January 25th) - where we make your visuals do the heavy lifting through brand systems and templates you can actually maintainJoin the waitlist for The Messaging Edit (returning late September) - my signature program for deep-diving into your messaging clarity and offer languageFollow Amanda's Tech Reel Series (tech and productivity coach mentioned in the episode)Connect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    26 min

  5. JAN 12

    50: Your Simplest Way Is Your Strongest Way: Content Strategy for Solopreneurs

    Feeling like you need a ring light, perfect angle, and cinematic editing skills just to post a reel? Let's be real—you don't. In this episode of The Creative Bodega, I'm breaking down why your simplest way is actually your strongest way when it comes to showing up online. I'm sharing the exact framework I use to create consistent content without the overwhelm, plus the boundaries that protect my sanity (and my time). If you're tired of feeling behind because you can't keep up with the polished creators in your feed, this episode is your permission slip to own your way—and make it work. *Check out the full show notes for this episode HERE Things I cover inside this episode: Why over-complication is killing your consistency—and how to simplify your content creation process without sacrificing qualityThe exact framework I use to define my "strongest way" (hint: it's the method you'll actually do on your most average Tuesday)How to choose one boundary that protects simplicity—from time caps to template banksWhy owning your simple approach isn't a consolation prize, it's literally a strategy that's sustainable, scalable, and bankableHow to market your simplicity as your edge (because your audience actually wants clarity and predictability, not perfection)Resources & Links mentioned in the episode: The Visual Edit VIP waitlist - My live program for service-based businesses who want their visuals to finally match their message without becoming full-time content creators (opens late January)!Connect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    20 min

  6. JAN 5

    49: How One Solopreneur Ended Her Content Overwhelm with a Visual System (Interview w/ Emily Odio-Sutton)

    Ever feel like you know what you do and who you help, but you just can't figure out how to make your brand stand out online? You're not alone! In this episode of The Creative Bodega, I'm sitting down with Emily Odio-Sutton—my very first official podcast guest (besides my husband!)—to talk about her journey from overwhelmed content creator to confident Etsy Print on Demand expert with a scroll-stopping Instagram presence. Emily shares exactly how she went from staring at a blank screen, wondering "what should I post today?" to batching a week's worth of content in just one sitting using reusable templates and a plug-and-play system. If you've been craving structure, clarity, and a content strategy that actually feels doable, this conversation is for you. Check out the full show notes for this episode HERE! Things I cover inside this episode: How Emily built a six-figure Etsy Print on Demand business (and what the heck that even means!)Why she joined The Visual Edit even though she was already a Canva pro—and what she learned that changed everythingThe exact A/B week system that eliminated her decision fatigue and made content creation feel like clockworkThe two specific weeks inside the program that made everything "click" for her visual strategyHow investing in systems and expert guidance paid her back in time savings alone—and why that matters more than you thinkResources & Links mentioned in the episode: Follow Emily Odio-Sutton on Instagram at @ecommemily for Etsy Print on Demand tips and behind-the-scenes contentCheck out Emily's YouTube channel for in-depth tutorials and strategiesJoin The Visual Edit VIP Waitlist for our 6th round happening in January 2026!!!Connect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    29 min

  7. 12/29/2025

    48: Choosing Enough: My 2025 Revenue Breakdown & Business Audit (Steal this!)

    Chasing an invisible revenue target and feeling like you're never making enough? Here's the truth: bigger isn't always better. In this episode of The Creative Bodega, I'm sharing my full 2025 year-end recap—the real numbers, what I stopped doing, and the one question that completely changed my business (and my nervous system). You'll learn how to define "enough" for your business, audit what's actually working, and build a business that fits your life—not the other way around. If you're ready to stop chasing the horizon and start leading with intention, this one's for you. *Check out the full show notes for this episode CLICK HERE. Things I cover inside this episode: How defining my "enough number" took me off the hamster wheel and gave me permission to choose the business I actually want to live insideMy full 2025 revenue breakdown by offer - what worked, what didn't, and why I made less by designThe exact questions to ask yourself in your own year-end audit (capacity, revenue mix, owned audience health, and boundaries)Why I'm backing off social in 2026 and doubling down on my podcast and email list insteadHow to choose better over bigger—and why that's not giving up, that's leadingResources & Links mentioned in the episode: My favorite year-end recap carousel templates for Canva - grab these 6 free templates to share your own wins and numbers with your audience in a fun, engaging way!Join The Visual Edit Waitlist: my once-a-year, crazy-hands-on program where we build your brand rules, core templates, file system, and publish-on-busy-days routine together (launching live mid-January with limited spots - join the waitlist for first access and early bird discounts!)Connect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    27 min

  8. 12/22/2025

    47: How My Community Carried Me Through a 20-Minute Zoom Blackout

    My worst live event nightmare came true—and I'm sharing the raw, unfiltered story while it's still fresh. I got kicked off my own Zoom workshop four times in front of 300 people during a live event for Canva World Tour. We're talking audio failures, connection drops, and me literally sweating through my clothes while 1600+ registrants watched the chaos unfold. But here's what happened next: my community held me together, I made three tiny pivots that saved the workshop, and I learned how to let go of control in real time. If you've ever been terrified of tech failing you during a live moment, this episode will show you exactly how to recover with grace (and why redundancy beats perfection every single time). Check out the full show notes for this episode, CLICK HERE. Things I cover inside this episode: The 3 tiny pivots I made in the moment that saved my workshop when everything was falling apart (including the unthinkable move I made as an over-preparer)Why redundancy beats perfection every time—and the specific backup systems I wish I'd had in place before going liveHow to let go when control is completely gone (and why gripping tighter actually makes you slower to respond)The mindset shift from "perform" to "serve" that calmed my nervous system enough to keep goingWhy your community is your safety net—and how to build that culture long before you need it (shoutout to Deb and Nicole!)Resources & Links mentioned in the episode: Canva Carousels That Convert workshop replay—watch the cleaned-up version without all the tech chaos!Connect with me: 🫶🏼 Follow me on Instagram for daily insights 🫶🏼 Join my 321 Create Newsletter for weekly content tips 🫶🏼 Check out The Content Coven Membership Be sure to hit "Subscribe" or "Follow" so you never miss an episode!

    20 min
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Trailer

5
out of 5
98 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Creative Bodega, a podcast about content marketing, Instagram growth, and personal branding designed specifically for female service-based solopreneurs.  Here, we believe you can confidently create engaging content, connect authentically with your audience, and convert followers into loyal customers — all without the burnout. Each week, host Em Connors shares actionable tips and expert advice to help YOU grow your business without letting it take over your life.  From how to spend less time on content creation and more time being strategic to overcoming the overwhelm of navigating tech updates and ever-changing trends, Em answers your toughest questions so you can serve your clients and show up as your best self. Life happens, so Em doesn’t hold back from sharing the unfiltered truth of what it’s like to run a multi-six-figure business and raise a family. In addition to sharing proven strategies straight from her own business, Em spotlights other successful female service providers to find out how they balance family and run a business while staying sane and prioritizing themselves in this crazy season of life.  If you’re ready to turn your content into clients alongside a community of women who understand the struggle, you’re in the right place. 

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