Podcast Transcripts & Articles

My GPS gets me where I’m going, but I don’t know where I am!

How often do you rely on a tool—like GPS or AI—to get you results without really understanding how you got there? Is it always okay to follow directions blindly, or are there times you need to know the “why” behind the answer? In this episode, I explore the risks and benefits of trusting our tools, the importance of understanding processes (at least a little), and when it’s safe to be hands-off versus when you need to dig deeper before you hit “go.”

Listen to this new 7-minute episode for insights on finding the right balance between dependence on tech and informed decision-making in your business.

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Shane McMurray – How do tariffs and supply chain issues affect wedding businesses?

What if your costs doubled overnight? What happens to your business when tariffs and supply chain issues change in a heartbeat? Are you relying too much on a single supplier? In this episode, I talk about the unpredictable nature of tariffs, how they impact different segments of the wedding industry—from bridal shops to service providers—and what proactive steps you can take, like contract updates and diversifying your supply chain, to stay resilient in uncertain times.

Listen to this new episode for practical ideas on protecting your business, managing costs, and preparing your contracts for sudden market shifts.

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Are you building a business to sell?

Are you building a business you can one day sell, or are you creating a lifestyle business that revolves around you? What happens to your company when you’re ready to walk away? In this episode, I explore the true value of your business beyond the physical assets—like your brand, your relationships, and your systems. Are your processes strong enough for someone else to step in, or is everything dependent on you? I’ll give you key points to consider if you ever want an exit strategy or simply want to create a business that runs smoothly whether you’re there or not.

Listen to this new 8-minute episode for insights on how to future-proof your business—so it has value beyond just your own time and effort.

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Mimi Brown – A Pivot from DJ to Professional Speaker

When is it time to pivot in your wedding business, and how do you know which risks are the right ones to take? What happens when you follow a passion out of your comfort zone, or invest in your own potential before it’s obvious to everyone else? In this episode, I sit down with Mimi Brown to unpack the journey from DJ to professional speaker—revealing how moments of mentorship, purposeful practice, and embracing “the business side” can transform your trajectory whether you’re behind the mic, running a team, or stepping on stage for the first time.

Listen to this new episode for inspiration on making bold career pivots, building your unique value, and actionable tips for amplifying your impact in the wedding and event industry.

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They don’t want to talk on the phone!

Are you getting ghosted by clients when you push for a phone call? Have you considered that today’s couples might prefer messaging, texting, or emailing over talking on the phone? In this episode, I explore what happens when we add friction to our communication process and the importance of meeting clients where they are — not where we wish they were. Are your habits hurting your chances, or can a simple adjustment make all the difference?

Listen to this new 9-minute episode for strategies on adapting your communication to match your clients’ preferences and increasing your booking success.

@Uptin Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHdljlfORJO/)

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Should you charge a lot more for an event that’s far away, or just say no?

Should you take on that event that’s hours away—or is it better to just walk away? What happens if you charge a much higher fee and the client actually says yes? Will the extra cash make up for the inconvenience, or will you regret saying yes just because of the price? In this episode, I share my perspective on how distance, motivation, and honest decision-making come together, with real-world examples and a simple rule to follow the next time you’re tempted to say yes for the wrong reasons.

Listen to this new 5-minute episode for practical advice on when to charge more for travel, when to turn jobs down, and how to protect your business (and peace of mind) from regretful “yes” decisions.

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Tom Chelednik – The Knot 2025 Real Weddings Study

What would your business look like if you froze it for two years—would you still be thriving, or would your unchanged methods leave you behind as couples’ expectations shift? Are you adapting fast enough to connect with today’s couples? Am I communicating price transparency and customization clearly, and am I missing out on leads by not updating my website or response process? Find out how shifts in the economy, generational preferences, and wedding planning technology are impacting booking trends—and what you should do about it before it’s too late.

Listen to this new episode for actionable insights on meeting Gen Z’s desire for personalization, improving your digital presence, and staying ahead of wedding business trends.

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Don’t make it so obvious that you’re using AI!

Are you unintentionally telling the world your content isn’t original? Could the green check marks and other default AI icons be giving you away? In this episode, I explore how to use AI as a tool without sacrificing your unique voice. What little details scream “I used AI!” to your clients, and how can you make sure your content truly feels like yours? I’ll share insights on better prompt engineering, editing for authenticity, and why starting with your own words makes all the difference.

Listen to this new 5-minute episode for practical tips on using AI to enhance your messaging—without losing your personal touch or professionalism.

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Clint Elkins – How will inflation, tariffs and supply issues affect us this year and beyond

Are your rising costs really out of your control? Are tariffs, inflation, and supply chain chaos just the new normal, or are there ways to get ahead of them? In this episode, I bring on Clint Elkins to dig into what’s really happening with food costs, supply challenges, and the hidden factors that set your prices—plus how to spot trends before they hit your bottom line. You’ll hear how natural disasters, labor markets, and even global events ripple through catering and events, and learn fresh ways to adapt, save, and thrive even in volatile times.

Listen to this new episode for insights on controlling costs, navigating unpredictable markets, and strategies venues and caterers can use to stay profitable in a changing world.

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Stop selling to a guaranteed minimum

Are you selling to a guaranteed minimum? What message are you sending when you lead with starting prices or minimums in your pitch? Could you be underselling your services by focusing on the lowest number your clients have to hit, rather than the unique results you deliver? In this episode, I explore why selling from the bottom up may be holding your business back, and how shifting your approach can help you book clients at higher rates—especially on those in-demand dates. I’ll share strategies for repositioning your pricing conversations and making sure you’re attracting clients who want the full value you provide, not just a bargain.

Listen to this new 6-minute episode for fresh strategies to stop underselling yourself and start converting more clients at the prices you deserve.

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