Learn how to leverage Pinterest for business growth with our comprehensive guide. Discover proven strategies for creating engaging pins and driving sales.

Pinterest for Business: How to Turn Pins into Profits

Did you know that 85% of Pinterest users have made a purchase based on Pins they’ve seen from brands? That’s right – Pinterest isn’t just another social media platform; it’s a powerful visual search engine and shopping discovery tool that could transform your business’s digital presence!

I’ve spent 11 years helping businesses maximize their online presence, and I’m excited to share everything you need to know about using Pinterest for business.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to optimize your existing Pinterest strategy, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything from setting up your account to creating content that converts.

Let’s dive in!

Getting Started with Pinterest Business Account

Let’s kick things off with the basics! Setting up a Pinterest business account is your first step toward Pinterest marketing success. Unlike personal accounts, a Pinterest business account gives you access to powerful features like rich Pins, analytics, and advertising capabilities.

Here’s how to get your Pinterest business account up and running:

1. Head to business.pinterest.com/create and click “Create account”
2. Enter your email address and create a password
3. Fill in your business details, including your business name and website
4. Choose your business type and main business category
5. Complete your profile with a professional profile picture and compelling bio

Pro tip: Use your business email address when setting up your account - it helps keep your personal and business Pinterest activities separate!

Optimizing Your Pinterest Business Profile

Once your account is created, it’s time to optimize your profile for maximum visibility. Your Pinterest business profile is like your digital storefront – it needs to be inviting and informative!

Start by crafting a keyword-rich business description that clearly explains what you do and who you serve. Remember, Pinterest is a search engine, so incorporating relevant keywords in your profile helps users find you more easily.

Next, verify your website. This step is crucial because it:

• Builds trust with potential customers
• Gives you access to website analytics
• Enables rich Pins functionality
• Shows your profile picture on Pins from your website

Understanding Pinterest Analytics Dashboard

One of the most valuable features of a Pinterest business account is access to detailed analytics. The Pinterest analytics dashboard provides insights into:

• Your audience demographics and interests
• Which Pins are performing best
• How many people are engaging with your content
• Where your traffic is coming from
• What actions users take after seeing your Pins

These metrics are gold for optimizing your Pinterest marketing strategy! I always recommend checking your analytics at least monthly to track progress and identify what’s working (and what isn’t).

Creating Your Pinterest Content Strategy

Now for the fun part – creating content that resonates with your audience! Your Pinterest content strategy should focus on providing value while maintaining visual consistency with your brand.

Types of Pins to Create

1. Standard Pins: Regular image Pins that link to your content or products
2. Video Pins: Short videos that capture attention in the feed
3. Story Pins: Multi-page Pins perfect for tutorials or step-by-step content
4. Rich Pins: Enhanced Pins that automatically sync with your website

Content Calendar Planning

Successful Pinterest marketing requires consistency. I recommend creating a content calendar that includes:

• Daily pinning schedule
• Seasonal content plans
• Product launches or promotions
• Holiday-specific content
• Trending topics in your industry

Aim to pin 3-5 times per day, mixing original content with repins from other relevant accounts.

Pinterest SEO and Keyword Optimization

Here’s something many people miss: Pinterest is as much a search engine as it is a social platform! That means SEO should be at the heart of your Pinterest strategy.

Keyword Research for Pinterest

Start by:

1. Using Pinterest’s search bar to find related terms
2. Noting Pinterest’s autocomplete suggestions
3. Checking what keywords your competitors are using
4. Using Pinterest Trends to identify popular search terms

Optimizing Your Pins

For maximum searchability, optimize:

• Pin titles (use clear, keyword-rich descriptions)
• Pin descriptions (150-300 characters)
• Board names and descriptions
• Alt text for images
• URLs and landing pages

Remember to use a mix of broad and specific keywords to capture different search intents.

Pinterest Rich Pins: Your Secret Weapon

Rich Pins are like regular Pins on steroids! They automatically sync information from your website with your Pins, keeping content fresh and engaging. There are three types:

1. Product Rich Pins: Display real-time pricing, availability, and product details
2. Article Rich Pins: Show headline, author, and story description
3. Recipe Rich Pins: Include ingredients, cooking times, and serving sizes

To enable Rich Pins:

1. Add meta tags to your website
2. Apply for Rich Pins through Pinterest
3. Wait for approval (usually within 24 hours)

Pinterest Board Optimization

Think of Pinterest boards as your content categories. Well-organized, optimized boards help users find your content and understand your offerings.

Tips for board optimization:

• Use keyword-rich board names
• Write detailed board descriptions
• Create board covers that match your brand aesthetic
• Organize boards in order of importance
• Use board sections for subcategories
• Archive seasonal or outdated boards

Pinterest Advertising Guide

Ready to amplify your Pinterest presence? Pinterest ads can help you reach new audiences and drive more conversions. Start with:

Types of Pinterest Ads

1. Promoted Pins: Regular Pins boosted to reach more people
2. Promoted Video Pins: Video content with broader reach
3. Promoted Carousels: Multiple images in a single ad
4. Shopping Ads: Product Pins with enhanced shopping features

Setting Up Your First Campaign

1. Choose your campaign objective
2. Define your target audience
3. Set your budget and schedule
4. Select your ad format
5. Create compelling ad content
6. Track and optimize performance

Pro tip: Start with a small budget to test what works best for your audience before scaling up!

Time to Pin Your Way to Success!

Pinterest for business is a unique opportunity to reach engaged users who are actively looking for products and inspiration. Hopefully, with this guide and consistently creating valuable content, you’ll be well on your way to Pinterest marketing success.

I know I’m personally using the ideas in this post to overhaul my on Pinterest for business strategy in the hopes of driving more traffic to my websites and offers.

But, we must remember that Pinterest is a long-game platform – don’t expect overnight results. Focus on creating high-quality, searchable content that provides value to your audience, and the results will follow.

Ready to get started? Head over to Pinterest and create your business account today!

Read for my practical takeaways from Adam Enfroy’s $10K/month content system. See how I’m adapting his AI strategies for real-world success.

Implementing Adam Enfroy’s $10K AI Content Strategy: My Action Plan

I recently watched Adam Enfroy’s comprehensive guide on building a $10k/month AI content system, and it was eye-opening. As someone who’s been running a content business for the better part of two decades, I found several valuable insights that I’m already planning to implement. Keep reading to learn what resonated most with me and how I plan to apply these lessons.

The Biggest Mindset Shift: Niche Focus

The most significant revelation for me was about niche selection. I’ll admit, I’ve been guilty of trying to cover too many topics too quickly. Even on this website, which is supposed to be my “personal brand” site – I am sometimes all over the map.

Adam’s emphasis on building topical authority in one specific area first really hit home. Instead of trying to be everywhere at once, I’m going to work on focusing my content strategy on using content creation to move the needle in a business before considering expansion.

Now, this isn’t to say I won’t write about anything else on this website. When I get a bug up my ass to write something, I still plan to. But, it will go on a category page, and not my main blog. I want to really hone in on focusing on this one primary niche. The reason? Well, my clients and my own goals – I want to help my clients learn the strategies for using content to convert…and I selfishly want to use my own content to convert too…

Rethinking My Keyword Strategy

Adam’s approach to keyword research was refreshingly practical. While many of my clients have been so focused on chasing higher-volume keywords, his strategy of targeting low-competition terms (difficulty under 5) while maintaining topical relevance makes much more sense for sustainable growth.

Here’s the thing – what he said isn’t new to me. I have loved the idea of low hanging fruit as a path of least resistance to getting more eyeballs on my content and the content of my clients for years. But, for some reason, the way he spoke about the low-competition keyword phrases resonated with me in a way that makes me want to rebuild my keyword list for my website, and the websites of my clients.

Choosing My Automation Path

Adam presented two main options for content automation:

Make.com Route

• More technical but highly customizable
• $9/month investment
• Integration with multiple AI tools

Machine.ai Approach

• Simpler interface
• Quick setup
• Direct WordPress integration

After careful consideration, I’m leaning toward a completely different automation path because to be honest, I don’t want to buy or learn anymore tools right now, and I think I can come up with a better system for me. Here’s what it will look like:

• Use Writer Zen for Keyword Research
• Grab the top 10 or 20 blog posts about the keywords I’m most interested in writing about
• Add those posts to a project using Claude.ai (this is my favorite AI content generator)
• Create blog post outlines and social media ideas from the research
• Then, massage it all, add my special human touches, and the personal details that marries the research with the stories of the real people my clients are helping
• Create graphics and social media posts
• Publish the blog posts, and social media posts, and promote, promote, promote.

Read my post on the Godaddy Resources page about how to use AI the right way.

The workflow I’ve come up with aligns with my goal of plunging as much humanity as possible into everything I create, but also saving time on the research, analysis, and brainstorming phases.

Re: Podcast episodes, I plan to use Castmagic to transcribe those, and then use the transcripts to generate blog posts and social media posts for promotion purposes. Castmagic uses ChatGPT and Claude to offer a GPT instance for every piece of audio or video content that you load into the platform.

I still love Claude.ai and it’s projects feature for most of the work I do. But for podcast stuffs, Castmagic is the best! You can actually grab a free trial of it here if you wanna try it too.

Try Castmagic free!

Adding the Human Element

One aspect I particularly appreciated was Adam’s emphasis on the human touch. While AI can help with content creation, success comes from adding personal expertise and real value.

I kind of already alluded to this a moment ago, but to break it down further I’ll continue implementing these practices with every piece of content I create:

• Adding first-hand experiences to every article/blog post
• Including personal insights from my journey in content creation (or in the case of my clients, their personal insights from their experience in their respective fields)
• Maintaining a consistent voice across all content
• Focusing on genuine value for my readers

My Implementation Plan

Here’s how I’m putting these lessons into action:

First 30 Days

• Auditing current content for niche alignment – I’ve actually already started this process and have deleted more than 500 blog posts that are no longer aligned with where I want to take things in the future. I’m considering pulling a Taylor Swift with my social media accounts and deleting and/or archiving a bunch of content there too…Time will tell if I actually move forward with this.
• Setting up my chosen automation system – I’ve started working on this too, but I’m still trying to nail down the best workflow for me.
• Creating templates to make quicker work of future tasks

60-Day Goals

• Establishing consistent publishing schedule – I really want to publish posts and podcast episodes a lot more frequently on my own sites
• Building out initial content clusters – I have some ideas for how I want to move forward with this too. I have some pillar content campaigns that I think would be incredibly helpful for folks
• Implementing basic monetization strategy – Though my primary income has been freelance work, I can’t deny that I am looking for ways of making money beyond working 1:1 with my clients. I would love to get some podcast sponsors, work on some sponsored posts (blog and social media), and I would also like to create some paid digital products and/or templates to help folks with creating content on their own.

The Reality Check

Adam’s current success ($3,000/month in ad revenue) didn’t happen overnight, and I’m prepared for the long game. This isn’t about quick wins but building a sustainable content business. I’m setting realistic expectations while maintaining consistency in execution.

I put ads on my site for a few months, and actually started earning a little bit of cash from this site. But now, I’m moving on to a different ads service that I am hopeful will yield better returns. The biggest two things I need to get better about though? Promoting the content I am creating, and finally launching my email list.

Moving Forward

What excites me most about this system is its scalability while maintaining quality. By focusing on content creation for business growth, I can build genuine authority while leveraging AI tools for efficiency. I think I will start documenting my progress with this system and sharing updates as I implement these strategies and ideas.

This is far from the beginning of my journey with AI-assisted content creation, but I’m excited to dive deeper into a better relationship with the AI overlords.

Essential Timestamps From the Video: Adam Enfroy’s $10K/Month AI Content System

In watching Adam’s comprehensive guide, I’ve noted the most crucial segments that you won’t want to miss. Here’s my breakdown of the key moments:

[0:00] Introduction & Course Overview
I found it valuable how Adam immediately sets the stage for what we’ll learn. He mentions this was filmed over four days, so expect to see different outfits but rest assured the content flows sequentially.

[0:48] Keyword Research Fundamentals
This is where things get interesting. Adam emphasizes finding the right seed keywords before automation. A key quote that stuck with me:

“There’s no automation that’s going to do the keyword research for us, so we have to do that ourselves.”

[8:02] Crucial Insight on Niche Selection
One of the most important segments where Adam explains why going too broad can hurt your success. His quote really resonated with me:

“You want everyone that lands on your site to be interested in some type of product that you’re selling.”

[22:29] AI Tools Deep Dive
Here Adam breaks down the difference between ChatGPT and Claude, with a fascinating insight:

“Claude I like better in general for like the actual writing of stuff, outlining and writing the actual blog content… I think it’s more creative.”

[27:32] Make.com Tutorial
This is where we get into the nuts and bolts of automation. Adam provides a detailed walkthrough of setting up Make.com for content automation. Pay attention to his explanation of how the webhooks work – it’s crucial for understanding the system.

[56:56] Machine.ai Alternative
For those who found Make.com too complex, Adam introduces a simpler alternative. I appreciate how he presents this as a viable option for beginners.

[1:02:51] Publishing Strategy
Critical section about what to do with AI content. A standout quote:

“The main bulk of this is stuff that Google already tells us.”

[1:10:28] Real-World Examples
Adam shows actual examples from his blog, including impressive stats:

“I made $100 yesterday from ad Revenue… probably will I’m on page right now for about $3,000 a month in ad Revenue.”

[1:14:54] Implementation Guidelines
The video wraps up with practical implementation advice. Adam emphasizes the importance of consistently publishing content while maintaining quality.

My Key Takeaways from the Timestamps:

1. The foundation is proper keyword research – no automation can replace this
2. Staying focused in one niche is crucial for success
3. Different AI tools serve different purposes – understanding when to use each is key
4. The system can be as complex (Make.com) or simple (Machine.ai) as you need
5. Real success comes from combining AI efficiency with human expertise

What struck me most throughout these timestamps was Adam’s emphasis on building a sustainable system rather than just churning out content. Each segment builds on the previous one, creating a comprehensive framework for content automation that maintains quality while scaling output.

In this post, industry leaders and founders share their most impactful book recommendations for money, mindset and mastery.

This post includes affiliate links - this means this website will receive a small commission if you order through any of them at no additional cost to you. Affiliate commissions are one of the ways my website makes money so that I can create content free of charge.

Leaders’ Library: Top Business and Personal Growth Books to Close Out 2024

As 2024 winds down, the quest for the perfect book recommendation is at its peak. Industry leaders like founders and CEOs have shared their top picks to guide your reading journey. From embracing vulnerability in “The Gifts of Imperfection” to innovating smartly with “The Lean Startup,” these experts provide 18 insightful recommendations. Get ready to discover transformative reads that can set the tone for your upcoming year.

• Embrace Vulnerability with ‘The Gifts of Imperfection‘
• Discover Interconnectedness in ‘The Overstory‘
• Transform with ‘Atomic Habits‘
• Reflect on Choices with ‘The Midnight Library‘
• Find Clever Shortcuts in ‘Smartcuts‘
• Broaden Skills with ‘Range‘
• Live Authentically with ‘The Four Agreements‘
• Understand Stories with ‘The Science of Storytelling‘
• Reframe Money Mindset with ‘The Psychology of Money‘
• Adopt Kobe’s Mindset with ‘The Mamba Mentality‘
• Enhance Thinking with ‘The Extended Mind‘
• Transform Finances with ‘Profit First‘
• Navigate End-of-Life with ‘The Art of Dying Well‘
• Heal Trauma with ‘The Body Keeps the Score‘
• Achieve Greatness with ‘Good to Great‘
• Embrace Uncertainty with ‘Think Like a Rocket Scientist‘
• Focus Deeply with ‘Deep Work‘
• Innovate Smartly with ‘The Lean Startup‘

Embrace Vulnerability with ‘The Gifts of Imperfection’

As we wrap up 2024, I find myself reflecting deeply upon “The Gifts of Imperfection” by Brené Brown. The book is basically about living a wholehearted life.

This book incredibly explains how important vulnerability is. According to Brené, vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength and the foundation for love, belonging, and joy. Her advice is to live in the moment, free from the burden of expectations, and to appreciate the beauty of life without reservation.

I found Brown’s writing both insightful and inspiring. Throughout the book, she shares personal anecdotes and research findings that make her point more relatable. She’s vulnerable and honest, and that makes her a trusted guide.

This year has taught me to live in the moment, and Brené beautifully shares how we can start enjoying life just as it is—messy, imperfect, but full of potential. I love the quote, “Let go of who you think you’re supposed to be and embrace who you are,” which is printed on the book’s cover.

Anybody wanting to get over self-doubt and make life more fulfilling should pick up this book. It’s a powerful reminder to be our true selves, flaws and all.

Mariyam Abid, Founder, The Beautyholic

Discover Interconnectedness in ‘The Overstory’

Heading into 2025, I’d steer you towards “The Overstory” by Richard Powers. It’s a profound narrative that intertwines the lives of its characters with the life-cycles of trees, echoing our commitment to growth and interconnectedness. Each chapter serves as a reminder of how deeply we’re rooted in our community and the impact of nurturing strong, lasting connections. This book reshaped my thinking on sustainability, a value we cherish as we craft our pins. Dive into “The Overstory”; it’s a powerful tale that inspires us to plant seeds for the future, both in nature and in business.

Bradley Fry, Owner, PinProsPlus

Transform with ‘Atomic Habits’

If you’re looking for a book to close out 2024, I highly recommend “Atomic Habits” by James Clear.

It’s a powerful guide on how small, consistent changes can lead to remarkable transformations. Clear breaks down the science of habits in a way that’s practical and easy to apply, making it perfect for anyone looking to start fresh or build better routines for the new year.

“Atomic Habits” helped me turn a simple 5-minute morning routine into a lasting habit that boosted my productivity. The small-changes approach made it easy to build momentum, and it’s stuck with me ever since.

Eric Gantz, Co-founder, Verena Street Coffee Co.

Reflect on Choices with ‘The Midnight Library’

I highly recommend reading “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig. It’s a beautifully crafted story that explores the concept of choices and the paths not taken in life. The protagonist, Nora Seed, finds herself in a library between life and death, where each book represents a different version of her life based on the choices she could have made.

What I love about this book is its profound message about regret, hope, and the infinite possibilities that life offers us. It encourages readers to reflect on their choices and recognize that while we can’t change the past, we can always embrace new opportunities and directions for the future.

I believe that every journey—whether physical or emotional—teaches us valuable lessons. “The Midnight Library” is a gentle reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. So, grab a cozy blanket, a warm drink, and dive into this thought-provoking read as we step into a new year filled with possibilities!

Danielle Hu, Founder, The Wanderlover

Find Clever Shortcuts in ‘Smartcuts’

I can’t stop thinking about Shane Snow’s book “Smartcuts.” It’s not your typical self-help fluff. Snow digs into real strategies for tackling problems in ways most of us wouldn’t consider. As an entrepreneur, I found myself scribbling notes and getting excited about applying these ideas. It’s all about finding clever shortcuts without cutting corners. Snow’s examples are fascinating—he looks at how some people zoom past traditional career ladders or create breakthrough innovations. What I love is how practical it feels. It certainly fired up my creative problem-solving skills.

Simon Brisk, Founder & SEO Strategist, Click Intelligence

Broaden Skills with ‘Range’

As I close off 2024, I do have a most-excellent book in mind, which I would highly recommend: “Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World” by David Epstein. This is the best challenge against conventional wisdom about specialization as the path to success. It shows how broadening one’s skills and experiences can lead to higher innovation and adaptability, especially in this age when everything keeps changing rapidly.

This book offers a new perspective, especially for entrepreneurs and leaders navigating multiple roles, on the value of diverse experiences. Epstein uses compelling stories and research to illustrate how generalists thrive in environments where flexibility, creative problem-solving, and cross-disciplinary thinking are required.

“Range” challenges readers to learn beyond the boundaries of their niches. As we enter 2025, this is very timely advice because adaptability and a holistic skill set are what will determine the difference between success and failure. If you’re looking for a book to inspire you to rethink your approach to career growth and personal development, “Range” is an excellent choice to start your new year with a fresh outlook!

Darcy Cudmore, Founder, RepuLinks

Live Authentically with ‘The Four Agreements’

“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz is a timeless book that offers profound insights into personal freedom, emotional resilience, and living authentically. It’s not your typical self-help book; it presents ancient Toltec wisdom through four simple-yet-transformative agreements that can help reframe how you approach relationships, challenges, and even your own self-perception.

Ruiz’s agreements—”Be impeccable with your word,” “Don’t take anything personally,” “Don’t make assumptions,” and “Always do your best”—provide practical guidance for navigating life’s complexities. Whether you’re a lawyer dealing with high-stress situations or someone striving for personal growth, the book’s teachings resonate on a deep, universal level. As the year wraps up, “The Four Agreements” encourages a reflective mindset, allowing you to enter the new year with clarity and intention.

For lawyers or anyone in leadership, Ruiz’s wisdom is especially helpful for managing interpersonal dynamics and emotional well-being. It’s an excellent read for those seeking balance, inner peace, and a fresh perspective to close the year on a strong note.

Meghan Freed, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Freed Marcroft

Understand Stories with ‘The Science of Storytelling’

Honestly, if I could only suggest one book for the end of 2024, it would have to be “The Science of Storytelling” by Will Storr. This is a scholarly nonfiction piece that delves into psychology and science, and man, it’s unbelievable how much it tells us about the way our brains learn stories. The book is super informative but not so dense that you can hardly read it. It’s a medium-fast-paced book.

I’m always striving to be a better writer, and this book changed my approach. But it’s a lot more than just giving hints on character and plot. It talks about why storytelling can heal and make us more deeply attached, and that’s interesting. Also, seriously—even the British Neuroscience Association applauds it.

This book is essential if you are a potential fiction writer or simply want to understand the human mind. It’s available on Amazon. Seriously though, it’s an excellent book and essential for anyone trying to understand the influence of a good story.

Thomas Franklin, CEO, Swapped

Reframe Money Mindset with ‘The Psychology of Money’

For a finance-focused option, I’d suggest “The Psychology of Money” by Morgan Housel. This book really resonated with me because it emphasizes how our relationship with money is as much about mindset as it is about numbers. It’s an insightful take on how our experiences, emotions, and even upbringing shape the way we handle money—lessons that are important for anyone wanting to achieve financial independence.

This book is one of those rare finance books that goes beyond just numbers and strategies—it dives into the emotional and psychological side of money, which often gets overlooked. One of the biggest takeaways for me was the idea that financial success isn’t just about making the right investment decisions; it’s about managing your behavior over time. That’s something that really resonated with me as both an investor and an entrepreneur.

For example, Housel’s perspective on risk and reward helped me reframe how I think about my long-term investments. He talks about how people often underestimate the importance of staying the course, even when markets are volatile, and that patience is one of the most valuable traits in wealth-building. 

As someone who has navigated both property and finance markets, I’ve found that being able to manage emotions during uncertain times has been key to staying on track with my goals. This book reinforces that success with money isn’t always about intelligence or being “right”—it’s about consistency, humility, and understanding your own behaviors.

Austin Rulfs, Founder, SME Business Investor, Property & Finance Specialist, Zanda Wealth

Adopt Kobe’s Mindset with ‘The Mamba Mentality’

A great book to read as we close out 2024 is “The Mamba Mentality: How I Play” by Kobe Bryant. It’s more than just a sports book; it’s about mindset, discipline, and pushing through challenges, which makes it a perfect read for ending the year on a high note. Kobe dives deep into the mindset that made him one of the greatest basketball players ever, sharing his approach to the game, training, and mental toughness.

What’s special about this book is how it translates basketball lessons into everyday life. Whether you’re an athlete or not, Kobe’s reflections on hard work, focus, and overcoming setbacks are inspiring and motivating. It’s a book that leaves you thinking about how you can apply his drive and mentality to your own goals heading into the new year.

Hicham Badri, Athlete, Blogger, Serve And Save

Enhance Thinking with ‘The Extended Mind’

“The Extended Mind” by Annie Murphy Paul—While many are familiar with popular self-help books, this lesser-known gem offers a fresh perspective on cognitive enhancement that’s particularly relevant in our complex work environments.

Paul’s book explores how we can use our bodies, spaces, and relationships to boost our thinking processes. We implemented her ideas about optimizing our physical workspace to enhance creativity, which led to more innovative ideas during our brainstorming sessions. Her insights on collaborative cognition also helped us restructure our team meetings, improving our problem-solving efficiency.

What makes this book stand out is its blend of cognitive science and practical advice. It’s not just about personal productivity; it’s about rethinking how we approach cognitive tasks as a whole. As we prepare for 2025, understanding how to leverage our extended cognitive systems could give businesses a real edge. If you’re looking to challenge your current thinking and find new ways to enhance your team’s cognitive capabilities, “The Extended Mind” is definitely worth a read.

Aaron Whittaker, VP of Demand Generation & Marketing, Thrive Digital Marketing Agency

Transform Finances with ‘Profit First’

As we wrap up 2024, I’d wholeheartedly recommend “Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz. It’s been a game-changer for our web development agency.

Think of it as a financial diet for your business. Just like you might set aside portions of your plate for different food groups, Michalowicz teaches you to allocate your revenue into different accounts for profit, owner’s pay, taxes, and operating expenses.

It’s counterintuitive—most of us were taught to focus on sales first, then expenses, with profit as an afterthought. But flipping this script has transformed how we manage our finances.

The beauty of “Profit First” is its simplicity. It’s not about complex accounting jargon—it’s practical, actionable advice that any business owner can implement.

Since adopting this method, we’ve seen steady profit growth, even during challenging times. It’s like having a financial safety net—giving us peace of mind and the ability to reinvest in our business confidently.

Remember, a thriving business isn’t just about how much you make, but how much you keep. “Profit First” shows you how to do just that. As we look towards 2025, this book could be the key to unlocking your business’s true potential.

Harmanjit Singh, Founder & CEO, Website Design Brampton

Navigate End-of-Life with ‘The Art of Dying Well’

“The Art of Dying Well: A Practical Guide to a Good End of Life” by Katy Butler is especially valuable for those of us in the funeral-services industry. It provides essential insights into navigating end-of-life experiences with grace and dignity.

Butler explores creating a fulfilling end-of-life plan that reflects individual values, preferences, and wishes. Her compassionate approach emphasizes the importance of open conversations about death and dying, which aligns with our mission to support families in making informed decisions during difficult times.

Reading this book can enhance our understanding of the emotional needs of those we serve, equipping us to guide families through the complexities of funeral planning. It reminds us that our work is not just about logistics but about honoring lives and providing comfort to grieving families. “The Art of Dying Well” encourages us to create meaningful experiences that reflect the unique stories of the deceased, ultimately fostering a more supportive and thoughtful approach to our services.

Paul Jameson, Founder, Aura.life

Heal Trauma with ‘The Body Keeps the Score’

As we wrap up 2024, I’d recommend “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk. I’ve seen how trauma impacts our adolescent patients. This book offers valuable insights into healing. It’s not just theory—van der Kolk provides practical strategies that I’ve found helpful in my own practice. While it can be a heavy read, I think it’s an important one for understanding ourselves and others better as we head into a new year.

Aja Chavez, Executive Director, Mission Prep Healthcare

Achieve Greatness with ‘Good to Great’

As we wrap up 2024, I’ve been reflecting on some of the classic business insights that still hold true today. One book that continues to stand out for me is “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. Even though it’s been around for a while, its lessons are timeless and still incredibly relevant for anyone trying to take their business to the next level.

What makes “Good to Great” so impactful is that it’s not just filled with theories. Jim Collins and his team did a deep dive into real companies that managed to go from being just good to truly great, and they uncovered the strategies that helped them make that leap. It’s data-driven and packed with actionable insights.

The book also introduces concepts like the Hedgehog Concept and the Flywheel Effect, which are not just buzzwords but powerful ideas that help leaders focus on what really matters. And it talks about the importance of leadership, particularly what Collins calls “Level 5 Leadership,” which combines humility with fierce determination—something I’ve seen firsthand in my own entrepreneurial journey.

Even though it’s been over two decades since it was first published, the lessons in “Good to Great” still resonate, especially as we face today’s business challenges. The emphasis on disciplined thinking and strategic action feels more relevant than ever.

Whether you’re a seasoned exec or a startup founder, revisiting “Good to Great” at the end of 2024 could provide some fresh perspectives on how to push your organization towards greatness.

Jay Yue, Growth, Wanderboat

Embrace Uncertainty with ‘Think Like a Rocket Scientist’

I highly recommend “Think Like a Rocket Scientist” by Ozan Varol. Written by a guy who worked on one of NASA’s Mars missions, this book is all about why uncertainty is crucial to great discoveries, big progress, and unlimited creativity. Contrary to what you might expect, it’s an easy read and structured in a way that makes it hard to put down. 

Varol looks at the decision-making process and the role of uncertainty in rocket science but also gives plenty of examples from the worlds of business, sports, and more. Each chapter is summarized into a few key points, but I think you can get the most value out of this book if you distill its lessons into your own framework for decision-making.

Sofie Couwenbergh, Content Strategist & Writer, Sofie Couwenbergh

Focus Deeply with ‘Deep Work’

I would recommend “Deep Work” by Cal Newport. Here, the author describes the need for focused, undistracted work in an increasingly noisy world. He explains how deep work produces better results in less time and leads to personal and professional growth.

As you close out 2024, this book can help you learn habits that destroy distractions, focus on high-value tasks, and maximize the use of your time. It is a guide for application fit for the bill for anyone who wants to work smarter, not harder.

Cory Arsic, Founder, Canadian Parent

Innovate Smartly with ‘The Lean Startup’

I believe that “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries is the book that should be recommended to entrepreneurs and business leaders who wish to make smarter decisions with fast-paced times still approaching the year 2024. This approach will not only encourage validated learning but emphasize that companies should test ideas fast and iterate from real customer feedback. This will make it a compelling framework for risk minimization and growth maximization.

“The Lean Startup” equips you with tools to address uncertainty and move on to data-driven decisions based on continuous innovation inefficiencies. It is for those companies trying to make their strategy all optimized for 2025.

Chris Hinman, CEO, TheBestReputation

Final Reflections: What Caught My Eye

After diving into these recommendations, I’m both humbled and excited. While I’ve already experienced the transformative power of books like “Atomic Habits” and “The Four Agreements” firsthand, I’m intrigued by several titles that weren’t on my radar before.

“The Extended Mind” particularly caught my attention – as someone constantly looking to optimize how I think and work, Annie Murphy Paul’s fresh take on cognitive enhancement feels like a must-read for my 2025 list. And while I’d heard buzz about “The Psychology of Money,” peeking into Morgan Housel’s perspective on the emotional aspects of financial decision-making has convinced me it needs to move up my reading queue.

I’m also drawn to “Range” by David Epstein. In a world that often pushes for hyper-specialization, the idea that being a generalist could be a superpower resonates deeply with my own professional path – especially lately. It’s definitely earned a spot on my reading list.

What strikes me most about this collection is its balance between practical wisdom and big-picture thinking. From the proven business insights in “Good to Great” (an old favorite) to the innovative thinking in “Think Like a Rocket Scientist” (now also on my must-read list), these recommendations offer something for every aspect of professional and personal growth.

Whether you’re like me and have already explored some of these titles, or you’re discovering them all for the first time, I believe there’s tremendous value in this curated list. I know I’ll be adding several of these books to my Kindle for sure.

Let’s stop and think about how to support a creator in a time of need.

How to Support a Creator in a Time of Need

You guys, I can’t stop thinking about what’s been happening down in Florida. Those hurricanes – Helene and Milton – they just tore through the place. And don’t even get me started on how North Carolina and Georgia got blindsided by Hurricane Helene. It’s heartbreaking!

But here’s the thing that’s really been nagging at me: all those creators we love, the ones who make our days brighter with their videos, art, or whatever… they’re hurting too. And it hit me – they don’t have that cushy safety net. No paid time off. No vacation or sick days. Nothing. If they can’t create, they can’t earn. Simple as that.

So I’ve been wracking my brain, trying to figure out how we can help creators in crisis.

Here’s what I’m thinking:

How We Can Help Creators in Crisis

First off, the easiest thing we can do? Just keep watching and engaging with their stuff. I know it sounds simple, but every view counts. It’s like, pennies add up, you know? So binge those YouTube videos, even if it’s old content. Every little bit helps with that AdSense money.

And hey, if you’ve got a few bucks to spare (I know times are tough all over), why not toss it their way? Donate via their PayPal donation buttons, Ko-fi, Buy Me a Coffee – whatever they’ve got. It doesn’t have to be much. Even the price of a coffee can make a difference when you’re struggling.

Oh, and Patreon! I just signed up for a couple of my faves. With many creators, they have content tiers so you can choose how much you want to give each month. Even a dollar or two adds up when enough people chip in.

Something else I’ve been doing is just… clicking around the websites of my favorite creators. Sounds weird, right? But a lot of these folks have ads on their sites, so more traffic means more ad revenue. It’s like window shopping, but it actually helps someone out.

And don’t forget about social media! I’m not talking about going crazy liking, commenting, sharing – the works. Just doing what you can with your favorite creators. It’s not just about making them feel good (though that’s important too). More engagement can lead to sponsorships and brand deals which could help them keep creating. So your thumbs-up could literally translate to dollars in their pockets.

When things get really rough, I’ve seen some people set up GoFundMe accounts for their favorite creators. I haven’t done it myself, but I’ve chipped in on a few. It’s pretty amazing to see a community come together like that.

When Life Throws Curveballs: The Many Faces of Creator Crises

You know, creators aren’t just dealing with big, headline-grabbing disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes. Life’s got a way of tossing curveballs at all of us, and for creators, those curveballs can mean their whole world gets turned upside down.

Take Whitney from Whiskey and Whit, for example. She’s this amazing crafter on YouTube, and she’s pregnant. Awesome news, right? But then it dawned on me – there’s no paid maternity leave in the creator world. She’s basically gotta choose between bonding with her newborn and keeping her channel alive. Talk about a rock and a hard place!

Or my favorite reaction channel Movie Night with Jacqui, that awesome redhead who does those killer re-watch reaction videos? She had a sudden death in the family last month. Suddenly, she’s dealing with grief, funeral arrangements, and family stuff. But her viewers? They’re still expecting videos, oblivious to the fact that she’s going through hell.

And don’t even get me started on car accidents. Suppose your favorite podcaster, got into a nasty car wreck last year. Totaled his car, broke his arm, and couldn’t record for weeks. No car, medical bills piling up, and no way to make content.

But it’s not always the big, dramatic stuff either. Sometimes it’s the slow burn of life’s everyday challenges. Mental health struggles, chronic illnesses flaring up, relationship breakdowns – all that invisible stuff that can make just getting out of bed feel like climbing Everest.

The thing is, we often don’t see these struggles. All we see is that our favorite creator hasn’t posted in a while, or their content seems “off.” It’s easy to forget that behind those polished videos or perfectly curated Instagram feeds, there’s a real person dealing with real life.

So yeah, while the big disasters are important to rally around, I think we need to remember that support might be needed at any time. You never know what’s going on behind the scenes. Maybe that’s why it’s so important to consistently support the creators we love – ’cause life’s unpredictable, and you never know when your support might be the thing that keeps them going.

When We Can, Let’s Help Creators in Their Time of Need

Look, I know we’re all dealing with our own stuff. But these creators… they’re part of our daily lives, ya know? They’re like friends we’ve never met. And friends help each other out when the going gets tough.

So yeah, that’s what’s been on my mind lately. What do you think? Have you ever noticed a creator going through a tough time? How did you show your support?

I’d love to hear what you guys think. Got any other ideas on how we can help out? Drop ’em in the comments. Let’s brainstorm together and show these creators we’ve got their backs.

‘Cause at the end of the day, we’re all in this crazy world together. Might as well make it a little bit better for each other, right?

Explore the growing influence of women in mobile app development and its impact on innovation, diversity, and the tech industry.

The following is a guest post from my bloggy friends over at Dogtown Media. Interested in having a guest post on my website? Click here for my guest post submission form.

Code Like a Girl: The Female Revolution in App Creation

In recent years, the number of women involved in mobile application development has greatly increased. As technology takes a front seat in changing the future, more and more women are reaching out to join the ranks of this vibrant industry. They bring diversity and innovation powered by distinctive perspectives and creative problem-solving skills. This article looks more into the rise of women in mobile app development.

Why Are More Women Choosing Careers in the Tech Industry?

It’s undeniable that more women are getting into the tech industry. But why? Here are some of the reasons:

Education That Encourages Girls Toward Technology

Exponentially, the world’s educational systems have changed tremendously in the past decade, basically encouraging girls to engage in technology from an early age. Essentially, tech fields were considered men’s preserve.

With deliberate efforts to introduce STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) at an early stage of learning, more girls have begun showing interest. According to the Society of Women Engineers, 34% of STEM workers are women, a percentage that continues to increase.

Female App Development Role Models

Role models in technology, particularly in app development, have greatly influenced women’s career pursuits. Noting successes and success stories will give the required visibility to young women: they, too, can innovate, lead, and succeed in technology. This gives role models who will inspire and mentor a new generation of female tech professionals, creating an inclusive industry.

Demand for Diverse Points of View in Innovation

Diversity provides unique insights, which can lead to more innovative solutions and products targeting a global marketplace. More opportunities are created not only for women but also empower them to take up leadership roles and hence influence the direction taken by technological advancements.

Shifting Perceptions of Tech Careers

It is how careers in technology are now perceived worldwide that has changed and hence quite alluring to women. They have slowly realized that a career in technology can serve their interests in creativity, problem-solving, and making a difference in the world.

Gender Diversity Initiatives at Work

Most technology companies have adopted various initiatives on gender diversity to ensure increased attraction and retention of more women in the industry. Activities range from targeted recruitment and leadership development programs for women to policies driving home the need to resolve gender pay gaps. These activities have an overwhelming effect on creating an environment where women feel valued and supported.

Benefits of Women Shifting to the Tech Space

The benefits of women in the tech include:

Diversity and Innovation

Women entering creates diversity in perspectives, which further breeds creativity and innovation. When women bring their unique perspectives, more complete products result. This diversity of thought is important for developing technologies that cater to a global and varied user base; this leads ultimately to higher quality and relevancy of tech solutions.

Economic Advantage Through Diversification

Workforce diversification, specifically within a fast-growing industry like technology, can result in more productivity. It strengthens companies and serves broader economic growth by achieving a more inclusive and dynamic economy. Furthermore, as women step into technology roles, they greatly add the much-required solutions to the supply deficit of talents and appealing products.

The Holistic Impact of Women

Women in tech bring much more to the table than their coding skills; they have a holistic impact that extends beyond technical expertise. The impact is mainly in roles calling for collaboration, communication, and empathy, such as project management and leadership.

This helps in building user-friendly apps that meet different user needs. Moreover, their social and ethical consideration of the implications of technology use adds great value to the tech world.

Role Models and Mentorship

Women in tech become role models for girls and women who want to join the profession. Seeing people like them working in tech breaks barriers perceived to stop women from pursuing the same paths. Many women in tech also take on mentorship roles, guiding and supporting others through their careers.

Things for women who have been in this industry for a while to tell beginners

Women in tech may have valuable advice for the upcoming ones. Some of them are:

Your Opinion Matters

The industry is driven by diverse perspectives, and your unique life experiences and insights are so valuable in this regard. Never hesitate to share your mind, whether in meetings, discussions, or even simple brainstorming, for these can create change or solutions that may propel your team and organization forward. Your voice is not only valuable; it is of core importance to the growth and diversity of tech.

Always Consider Your Health and Happiness

Tech is overwhelming: long hours of working, high stress, and always under pressure. It’s essential to be able to take a step back and reevaluate once in a while if your job is enriching or slowly draining your health and happiness. Establish boundaries and look after yourself; don’t be afraid to make the next move when something inside your role doesn’t feel sustainable.

Don’t Prove a Point Regarding Female Stereotypes

This may be one of the most potentially liberating truths to learn: You don’t have to fulfill any stereotype to have a successful life in tech. Be it the expectation of being nurturing or ultra-agreeable or less technical—none of these should define your role or your approach. The tech industry needs diverse talents and perspectives, so there is no need for you to dwell on traditional strengths or otherwise.

Always Appreciate Yourself

In fast-moving tech, it’s way too easy for your contributions to get brushed aside or co-opted by others, particularly in collaborative environments. Whether it is a new project, a new idea, or good execution, your name should be attached. That way, you build a reputation, further your career, and have all your efforts acknowledged and rewarded for.

The growing involvement of women in the mobile application development arena is one big paradigm shift toward bringing diversity, creativity, and innovation on board. Their presence will play a critical role in shaping the future of mobile application development so that technology can effectively serve all people.

Find the ideal 40th birthday jewelry gift. Learn about birthstones, elegant styles, and tips for a memorable celebration.

The following is a guest post from my bloggy friend Augustine Jewelry. Interested in having a guest post on my website? Click here for my guest post submission form.

Sparkling at 40: The Ultimate Guide to Birthday Jewelry Gifts

A woman’s 40th birthday is a major milestone worthy of a striking gift, and jewelry is always a great choice. But with so many kinds of jewelry, and with the lady of honor likely having collected a pile of dusty necklaces they just aren’t crazy about, where do you start when looking for the perfect piece of jewelry that will be worn and admired for years to come? Here are some tips to help you find the best gift for your friend, mother, wife… or to treat yourself on this special occasion!

The Importance of Celebrating Life

As women age, they can become more and more hesitant to celebrate their birthdays in big ways. 40, in particular, can be the first time many women feel truly “old”, but viewing growing older in such a negative way can harm mental health and certainly won’t make someone a day younger! As we get older and the years seem to blur together more, it gets even more important to celebrate every milestone, season, and holiday to help keep life exciting.

Elegant, Mature Pieces for the Mature Woman

Birthstones Give Gifts a Personalized Touch

Jewelry is such a universally beloved gift that it can seem a bit impersonal, which is where utilizing your giftee’s birthstone comes in. Choosing a piece of jewelry with the birthday girl’s signature birthstone incorporated shows you’ve been thinking of her, personalizing the present and giving her a subtle way to express herself.

A Quick Guide to Birthstones:

January: Garnet. A warm, deep red stone symbolizing good health, and believed by some to bring wealth to the wearer.

February: Amethyst. A lovely purple gem associated with peace and stability.

March: Aquamarine. A crystal clear blue gem that symbolizes tranquility and harmony.

April: Diamond. The all-time classic stone is associated with prosperity and purity.

May: Emerald. A spring-colored stone for a late spring birthday associated with peace and new beginnings… like entering a new decade of life!

June babies have not two, but three options with unique symbolisms: Pearl (innocence, faith), Alexandrite (transformation, luck), and Moonstone (protection, femininity).

July: Ruby. This classic, deep red gem symbolizes passion and energy, making it a particularly meaningful romantic gift for a July baby. Ruby is also associated with 40-year anniversaries, so it makes a lovely gift for any 40th birthday girl regardless of their birth month.

August: Peridot. The bright green “gem of the sun” according to ancient Egyptians is believed by some to give its owner sweet dreams.

September: Sapphire. While most commonly known for its blue variation, sapphires come in a variety of colors. Some believe it helps focus the mind.

October babies have both Opal and Tourmaline. Milky white opals symbolize protection, while tourmaline is associated with wisdom.

November has two birthstones: Topaz and Citrine. Both are associated with good fortune and calm vibes.

December: Turquoise. One of the world’s oldest known gemstones is also one of the most unique and is symbolic of creativity. It’s relatively affordable making it a great option when considering a beaded bracelet for a December birthday girl.

Other Birthday Tips

-If you find a truly special piece of jewelry or jewelry set, but find it a bit outside your price range, consider teaming up with the birthday girl’s other loved ones to get her a collective gift. Everyone pitching in lets the birthday crew present something truly remarkable and memorable beyond what any of you could do alone. And bonus: it takes that feeling of competing to get the best present out of the equation.

-Take the drinks seriously. Gone are the college days of just drinking anything for the sake of getting drunk and here are the days of wine tasting, food pairings, and classy champagne. You can even purchase or print custom labels for the wine bottles celebrating the occasion!

-Make sure photo-ops are included in the itinerary and surprise the birthday girl with a bonus keepsake of the wonderful birthday she spent with all of her favorite people! (This will also help the people who had a bit too much of that custom wine we talked about before remembering the party.) Consider gathering some props for fun photos and hiring a professional photographer so nobody needs to be busy fiddling with their camera.

-But most important of all: make sure the birthday girl isn’t stuck doing the cleaning! If the party is happening at her place, put together a cleaning crew to stick around after the party (or come back the next day) and leave her house looking better than you found it. Consider setting up at another person’s house or renting out a house instead, or take the party on the road to a park or winery. Wherever you celebrate, don’t let the birthday girl leave stressed about getting her place back in order afterward!