9 | Filling Your Creative Cup – A Guide for Entrepreneurs

Content Creation, Marketing, Podcast

Pinterest Pin with words: Filling Your Creative Cup – A Guide for Entrepreneurs by Jen Vazquez of Jen Vazquez Media on Marketing Duo Podcast with co host Cinthia Pacheco of Digital Bloom IQ

As entrepreneurs and creatives, we often pour ourselves into our businesses, but how often do we refill our own cups? In this episode of the Marketing Duo Podcast, Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco discuss the importance of self-care and creating space to spark creativity and prevent burnout. From personal stories to actionable advice, this episode will inspire you to prioritize your well-being while growing your business.

Why Filling Your Creative Cup is Essential

Creativity doesn’t happen on demand. Both science and personal experience show that giving your brain time to rest and recharge leads to better ideas and greater productivity. Jen shares how activities like walking, reading, and even taking baths have helped her overcome creative blocks, while Cinthia highlights how intentional breaks and mindfulness practices keep her motivated.

The Danger of Overworking

The “hustle culture” glorifies overworking, but the long-term costs—burnout, exhaustion, and even health issues—are not worth it. Cinthia recounts a story of a businesswoman who worked through a launch despite being hospitalized, showcasing how unsustainable practices are often normalized. Jen emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, taking weekends off, and integrating downtime into her schedule.

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Tips to Refill Your Creative Cup

1. Incorporate Self-Care Rituals

  • Jen finds joy in getting her eyelashes done, calling it her “lash nap.” It’s a small but meaningful way to feel confident and refreshed.
  • Cinthia prioritizes exercise, attending classes that help her disconnect from stress and recharge her energy.

2. Embrace Mindful Activities

  • Reading fiction allows Jen to step away from work and come back inspired.
  • Cinthia recommends yoga as a way to combine movement with mindfulness.

3. Create Space for Reflection

  • Quiet car rides or walks provide opportunities for ideas to flow.
  • Jen uses silence during her weekly drives to let her thoughts settle and spark new ideas.
    •  

4. Set Boundaries Around Work

  • Define non-negotiable rest days to focus on personal time or hobbies.
  • Recognize that long-term success depends on sustainable work habits.

The Importance of Saying No

Both hosts agree that being selective about commitments is key. By focusing on what truly matters, you can maintain a balanced life while still achieving your goals.

Bottom Line

Refilling your creative cup is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s reading, exercising, or simply creating quiet moments, prioritizing yourself is the key to staying inspired and motivated in your business. Share your favorite ways to recharge with us on Instagram at Marketing Duo Podcast—we’d love to hear from you!

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

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Why You Shouldn’t Just Create Pins Once

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest, Pinterest Trends

Pinterest pin with text: Why You Shouldn’t Just Create Pins Once 2025 by Jen Vazquez of Jen azquez Media Pinterest Manager

Think you can post a pin once and forget about it? That mindset could be costing you valuable traffic and leads. While Pinterest is often seen as a “set-it-and-forget-it” platform, the truth is, successful accounts build their reach through consistent and strategic pinning over time. Let’s break down why pinning once isn’t enough and what you can do instead to maximize your Pinterest strategy.

1. The Pinterest Algorithm Loves Fresh Content

Pinterest’s algorithm rewards accounts that consistently upload fresh content. This doesn’t mean you need to create brand-new content daily, but you do need to keep your profile active. Here’s why:

  • Fresh Pins Boost Visibility: When you upload a new pin or a new version of an existing pin, Pinterest prioritizes it in search results and users’ feeds.
  • Consistency Builds Trust: Regularly pinning signals to Pinterest that your account is active, which helps your overall reach.

Tip: Instead of pinning once, create multiple variations of your pin designs. Use different titles, images, or layouts to keep your content fresh and engaging.

2. People Engage Differently Over Time

Audience behavior on Pinterest changes with trends, seasons, and even time of day. If you post a pin once, you’re missing the chance to reach users who might engage with your content later.

  • Seasonal Trends Matter: Content can gain momentum months after it’s posted. For example, a summer photoshoot might take off in June, even if you pinned it in February.
  • Search Behavior Evolves: Users are always searching for new things. Regularly repinning and refreshing your content increases its chances of being discovered.

Example: A pin about “Fall Wedding Trends” might perform better in November when engagement season starts than when it’s originally pinned in May. By repinning, you’re keeping it relevant.

Join the Pinterest Trends Challenge

Ready to take your Pinterest strategy to the next level? The Pinterest Trends Challenge is designed to help you discover and leverage the hottest trends on Pinterest to drive traffic and generate leads. Over the course of this challenge, you’ll learn how to identify seasonal and evergreen trends, create optimized content, and strategically pin to stay ahead of the competition. Whether you’re new to Pinterest or looking to refine your strategy, this challenge will give you the tools and insights you need to turn Pinterest into your lead-generating powerhouse. Don’t miss out—join today and start transforming your Pinterest game!

Sign Up Here

3. Your Audience Needs Repetition

Marketing experts agree—people need to see something multiple times before they take action. This concept, called the Rule of 7, applies to Pinterest too.

  • Multiple Pins Increase Clicks: When you share variations of your pin over time, you’re giving your audience more opportunities to click, save, or engage.
  • Different Designs Speak to Different People: Some users may be drawn to a pin with bold text, while others prefer a minimalist design. By creating a variety of pins, you’re appealing to a broader audience.

Tip: Use scheduling tools like Tailwind to space out your pins so you stay consistent without overwhelming your followers.

4. Build a System for Long-Term Success

To make the most of Pinterest without feeling overwhelmed, create a batching and scheduling workflow. This ensures your content stays active even when you’re busy.

  • Batch Your Pins: Dedicate one day a month to create multiple pin designs for your latest content.
  • Schedule Strategically: Use Pinterest’s native scheduler or third-party tools to spread your pins out over weeks or months.
  • Repurpose Older Content: Don’t let older blog posts collect dust. Refresh their pins and give them new life.

Ready to Create a Winning Pinterest Strategy?

If you’re tired of pinning once and hoping for the best, it’s time to take a more strategic approach. Creating fresh content, repinning strategically, and maintaining consistency are the keys to building a successful Pinterest presence.

Need help? Join my Pinterest Challenge to learn how to create a simple yet powerful Pinterest strategy that drives traffic and generates leads. Let’s turn your Pinterest into a lead-generating machine!

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

Pinterest pin with text Fresh Pins_ The Secret to Pinterest Growth by Jen Vazquez of Jen azquez Media Pinterest Manager
Pinterest Pin with text: Maximize Pinterest Traffic with Smart Strategies
Pinterest Pin with text: Pinterest Marketing Made Easy by Jen Vazquez of Jen azquez Media Pinterest Manager
Pinterest Pin with text: Why Consistency is Key to Pinterest Success by Jen Vazquez of Jen azquez Media Pinterest Manager
Pinterest Pin with text: The Rule of 7 for Pinterest Growth by Jen Vazquez of Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager

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8 | Taking Time Off as a Solopreneur: Strategies for Balance and Burnout Prevention

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest Trends, Podcast

Taking Time Off as a Solopreneur_ Strategies for Balance and Burnout Prevention by Jen Vazquez Media

Taking Time Off as a Solopreneur: Why It’s Essential

In the hustle of running your own business, taking time off can feel impossible—but it’s crucial for long-term success. Burnout is real, and the myth of “work-life balance” often leaves solopreneurs stretched too thin. Instead of aiming for balance, think in terms of guardrails, cycles, and intentional time management.

As shared in a recent Marketing Duo Podcast episode, hosts Jen and Cynthia dive into how solopreneurs can reclaim their time while keeping their business thriving. 

Key Takeaways from the Podcast

1. Reframe Work-Life Balance

  • Instead of seeking perfect equilibrium, think of your life in phases or cycles. During busier times, you may lean into work, but ensure you create space to recharge.

2. Guard Your Calendar

  • Merge personal and professional calendars to avoid overbooking.
  • Block off specific days or weeks for family time, personal development, or rest.
  • Example: Schedule no meetings between December 21 and January 5 to create a buffer during the holidays.

3. Batch Work for Efficiency

  • Consolidate recurring tasks like podcast recordings or client calls into one day.
  • Limit commitments—e.g., no more than three interviews in one day.
  • Use tools like Calendly to streamline scheduling and avoid conflicts.

4. Plan Ahead Strategically

  • Use slower months (like December) to plan the upcoming quarter.
  • Update backend systems and automate tasks to reduce future workload.
  • Create a “dream week” schedule that aligns with your goals and priorities.

5. Embrace the “Fifth Week Miracle”

  • Some months have a fifth week—use this as unscheduled time for catching up, planning, or resting.

Why Time Off Fuels Productivity

Taking intentional breaks isn’t just about rest; it’s about coming back with fresh ideas and renewed energy. Whether it’s a day of reading, a local staycation, or simply unplugging from screens, time off stimulates creativity and mental clarity.

Final Thoughts: Create a Business That Supports Your Life

Your business should enhance your life, not consume it. Experiment with these strategies, adapt them to your needs, and prioritize rest as a non-negotiable. Remember, it’s your company—make it work for you.

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

The Ultimate Guide to Solopreneur Time Management by Jen Vazquez Media
Solopreneur Success_ The Key to Taking Time Off by Jen Vazquez Media co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast
How to Take Time Off as a Solopreneur Without Losing Momentum by Jen Vazquez Media co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast
Effective Time Management for Solopreneurs by Jen Vazquez co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast with Cinthia Pacheco of Digital Bloom IQ
Avoid Burnout_ Solopreneur Tips for Sustainable Success by Jen Vazquez co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast with Cinthia Pacheco of Digital Bloom IQ

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7 | How to Repurpose Content for Maximum Business Success

Content Creation, Marketing

pinterest pin with words: Master Instagram Like a Pro_ A Mom’s Guide to Using Every Feature to Connect, Engage, and Shine on the Marketing Duo Podcast with Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco

Repurposing content is a game-changing strategy for online business success. In the latest Marketing Duo Podcast, Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco dive deep into how to make your content work smarter, not harder. If you’re looking for ways to save time, amplify your reach, and keep your marketing consistent, this guide is for you.

Why Repurposing Content Matters

Repurposing content is the art of maximizing what you’ve already created. It saves time, extends your reach, and ensures consistency across platforms.

  • Reach More Audiences: Not everyone consumes content in the same way. By repurposing, you can connect with your audience through blogs, videos, podcasts, and social media.
  • Work Smarter, Not Harder: As Jen and Cinthia point out, a single piece of content can fuel multiple platforms, reducing the pressure to create from scratch constantly.

Mindset: Start Small and Stay Consistent

One key to successful repurposing is shifting your mindset. Cinthia emphasizes the value of small, actionable pieces of content. “Your audience doesn’t need the whole cake,” she says. “They just need a crumb.” Start with simple content that offers value without overwhelming your audience.

Jen echoes this by stressing the importance of consistency. Whether it’s a blog, podcast, or video, creating a core piece of content weekly can keep your marketing pipeline full.

Steps to Repurpose Your Content

Identify Your Core Content

  • This could be a blog, podcast, video, or another format you enjoy creating.
  • Example: Jen uses videos as her starting point, while Cinthia starts with her podcast.

Repurpose for Multiple Platforms

  • Blogs: Transcribe your video or podcast into a blog.
  • Social Media Posts: Pull snippets or quotes to share on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
  • Email Newsletters: Create a digest of your content to engage your email audience.

Use Tools to Save Time

  • RecurPost: Automate posting and keep your content evergreen.
  • Canva: Create visually appealing graphics and pins.
  • Descript: Generate transcripts, captions, and clips from podcasts or videos.

The Role of Search Marketing Platforms

Jen and Cinthia stress the importance of having both a search-based and social media strategy. Platforms like Pinterest, YouTube, and blogs are evergreen sources that drive long-term traffic. Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok complement this by building your brand and connecting with your audience in real time.

Pro Tip: Use Calls to Action Strategically

Place calls to action (CTAs) in the middle of your blog, not just at the end. Highlight lead magnets in a bold color to catch readers’ attention and grow your email list.

Bottom Line

Repurposing content isn’t just a marketing hack—it’s a business strategy. By starting with a core piece of content and leveraging tools and workflows, you can save time and reach your audience more effectively. Remember, consistency and mindset are key. Ready to take your marketing game to the next level? Start repurposing today!

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

How to Save Time by Repurposing Your Content for Maximum Business Success on the Marketing Duo Podcast with Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco
Repurposing Made Simple_ Boost Your Business with Smart Marketing Strategies on the Marketing Duo Podcast with Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco
Streamline Your Marketing_ Repurposing Tips to Save Time and Grow Your Audience
Transform Your Marketing Workflow with Content Repurposing Tips on the Marketing Duo Podcast with Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco

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6 | Fun Digital Marketing News December 2024: Marketing News Roundup: AI Growth, Pinterest Updates, and a Free Summit You Can’t Miss

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest, Pinterest Trends, Podcast

pinterest pin with words: 6 | Fun Digital Marketing News December 2024: Marketing News Roundup: AI Growth, Pinterest Updates, and a Free Summit You Can’t Miss

Fun Digital Marketing News December 2024: Marketing News Roundup: AI Growth, Pinterest Updates, and a Free Summit You Can’t Miss

This week on the blog, we’re diving into some exciting marketing news – including jaw-dropping AI developments, Pinterest’s latest tools, and an actionable, can’t-miss event for creative marketers. Let’s get to it!

1. OpenAI’s Massive Funding Round: Why It Matters for Business Owners

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, just raised a staggering $6.5 billion in funding, valuing the company at $157 billion. With major investments from Microsoft, NVIDIA, and SoftBank, OpenAI plans to use this funding to increase computational power and push AI research even further.

What Does This Mean for Small Business Owners?

This news is a sign that AI is here to stay – and it’s growing fast. If you’ve been hesitant about adopting AI tools in your business, now is the time to take that first step. From content creation to travel planning (yes, even packing lists!), AI can save you time and streamline your workflows.

Key Takeaway:

Don’t fear AI – embrace it. Start small, explore how tools like ChatGPT can help, and look for opportunities to integrate AI into your business processes. AI isn’t replacing businesses; it’s helping them adapt and thrive.

2. Pinterest Inclusion Fund: A Game-Changer for Underrepresented Creators

Pinterest continues to set the bar for inclusivity with its Inclusion Fund. This program supports creators from underrepresented communities – including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and individuals with disabilities – by offering financial support, educational tools, and resources to help them grow their businesses on Pinterest.

Why It’s Important:

Pinterest is all about making the platform accessible and diverse, from tools like inclusive hair type searches to body-positive content features. If you’re eligible, don’t miss the chance to apply.

Apply for the Pinterest Inclusion Fund Here.

Mark Your Calendar: Creative Marketing Summit 2025

If you want to find, attract, and book your ideal clients, the Creative Marketing Summit is for you. Hosted by Jen Vazquez, this virtual summit brings together 30+ marketing experts to deliver actionable strategies you can implement right away.

  • What to Expect: Every session includes real tips, tools, and free resources.
  • When: February 2025
  • Cost: Free to attend, with an optional VIP ticket for lifetime access.

Why You Should Attend:

Whether you’re a new business owner or a seasoned pro, this summit will spark fresh ideas, provide actionable inspiration, and connect you with like-minded female service providers. Marketing is always evolving – and this is your chance to stay ahead of the curve.

SIGN UP FREE
New Pinterest Look! OLD LOOK and New look by Jen Vazquez Media

3. New Pinterest Features: What’s Rolling Out Now

Look at that fresh Look for Pinterest Profiles! Pinterest is slowly rolling out a new desktop design for profiles. Instead of a large cover photo that hides your pins, the layout now places your profile photo on the right and displays pins prominently below. This change allows visitors to see your pins immediately – a big win for visibility.

Pro Tip:

If you don’t see the new look yet, hang tight. Pinterest rolls out features gradually to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Collages: A Fun Way to Share Your Inspiration

Pinterest is introducing an easy-to-use collage tool that lets you create mood boards and share visual inspiration directly on the platform. Whether you’re planning your next brand shoot or designing a project, this tool makes it simple to customize and collaborate.

4. Tailwind Updates: Save Time With Smarter Pin Scheduling

Tailwind, the go-to Pinterest scheduling tool, is back with a new-and-improved pin scheduler. If you use Tailwind, you’ll love these updates:

  • Easier Scheduling: All your pins are now in a central section with your schedule visible on the side.
  • Time-Saving Tools: Features like interval pinning allow you to space out pins strategically without being spammy.

Tailwind continues to innovate, saving marketers hours of work each week. If you’ve been overwhelmed by Pinterest workflows, this update might be a game-changer.

Final Thoughts: Embrace Change, Get Inspired, and Take Action

From AI advancements to Pinterest tools and networking opportunities, now is the time to adapt, learn, and grow in your marketing. Whether you’re exploring AI for the first time or refreshing your Pinterest strategy, there’s never been a better moment to invest in your business.

Have questions about Pinterest, AI, or the Creative Marketing Summit? 

Have questions, we’d love to help! Reach out via our social media!  Hit us up at @MarketingDuoPodcast and tag Cinthia at @digitalbloomiq and Jen at @jenvazquezmedia on Instagram, and let us know your thoughts. We’d love to hear from you!

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Pinterest Pin with words: December 2024 Marketing Trends OpenAI Growth Pinterest Updates for Creators by Jen Vazquez Media
pinterest pin with words: Top Marketing News December 2024 OpenAI Funding Pinterest Updates and More by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Expert
Pinterest pin with words: Game-Changing Digital Marketing Updates AI Growth and Pinterest Tips by Jen Vazquez Media Pinterest Manager
Pinterest Pin with words: OpenAI’s Big Funding and Pinterest Tools You Need for 2024 by Jen Vazquez Media Marketing Expert
Pinterest pin with words: New Pinterest Features Tailwind Updates and a Free Marketing Summit

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Your Ultimate Guide to Planning for 2025: A Fresh Approach to Marketing Strategy

Content Creation, Marketing, Podcast

pin with words: Your Ultimate Guide to Planning for 2025_ A Fresh Approach to Marketing Strategy by Jen Vazquez Media

As we approach the new year, it’s time to gear up with a marketing plan that truly works for your business. My planning process isn’t the typical “set-it-and-forget-it” kind of deal—it’s a hands-on, data-driven, and creative workflow that ensures your content is not only fresh but also impactful.

Let’s dive into my step-by-step process for 2025, combining insights, AI tools, and strategic repurposing to simplify and supercharge your marketing efforts.

Step 1: Reviewing Last Year’s Content Performance

Before you can plan ahead, you need to look back. Start by analyzing the content you created in 2024 using tools like Google Search Console. Here’s what to focus on:

  • Identify your top-performing content based on impressions and clicks.
  • Look for pages with high impressions but low clicks (opportunities to optimize).
  • Pinpoint content that consistently ranks well and aligns with your goals for 2025.

Doing this gives you a clear picture of what resonates with your audience and what areas need improvement.

Detailed insights in Part 1 of the series.

Step 2: Quarterly Planning Based on Data

With your performance review in hand, it’s time to map out your strategy. I recommend a quarterly approach to content planning:

  1. Set quarterly themes: Break down your yearly goals into smaller, more manageable themes that guide your content focus for each quarter.
  2. Leverage data insights: Use analytics to decide what topics or keywords to target. Focus on what’s already working and explore related areas to expand your reach.

By planning in quarters, you allow flexibility to pivot as needed while keeping your efforts aligned with long-term goals.

Read more in Part 2 of the series.

Step 3: Picking Core Content and Using AI

Core content is the backbone of your marketing strategy. These are the cornerstone pieces that you’ll repurpose throughout the year. Here’s how to choose them:

  • Select 4–6 main topics aligned with your audience’s pain points and interests.
  • Use AI tools like ChatGPT to brainstorm headlines, outlines, or even full drafts to save time and stay creative.

This approach ensures your content is not only intentional but also scalable.

Explore this process in Part 3.

Marketing Accelerator

Learn how to work through planning your content for 2025 by 1:1 coaching with me!  Let me help you look back at analytics, learn your business goals, and make recommendations to attract the audience you want to book!

LEARN MORE

Step 4: Leveraging AI for Social Media

Once your core content is set, extend its life by creating social media posts. Here’s my formula:

  1. Break down each blog post into smaller chunks or bite-sized tips.
  2. Use AI to craft engaging captions, tweets, or even Instagram carousel copy.
  3. Match your social posts with visuals or videos to maximize engagement.

By using AI strategically, you’ll keep your social feeds active without starting from scratch every time.

Discover more in Part 4.

Step 5: Repurposing Old Content That Ranks

Don’t let high-performing content gather dust! Repurposing is the ultimate way to maximize your efforts:

  • Update older blog posts with fresh data, new links, or optimized keywords.
  • Transform a popular blog into a podcast episode, video, or infographic.
  • Share evergreen content regularly to new audiences.

AI can help here too by suggesting updated headlines, summarizing old posts, or drafting new formats for your content.

Learn more about repurposing in Part 5.

Why This Process Works

By blending data insights, creativity, and AI tools, this process makes planning more efficient and impactful. You’ll spend less time creating content and more time engaging with your audience. Plus, by repurposing your best work, you’re not reinventing the wheel—you’re optimizing it for maximum reach.

Are you ready to plan your best year yet? Let’s make 2025 the year your marketing strategy works for you, not the other way around. If you want help, I have a service so I can help you! Check out Marketing Accelerator!

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

image of women in black holding a podcast microphone and words: Transform Your Marketing with AI and Strategic Repurposing for 2025_ by Jen Vazquez Media Pins
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women in black with confetti and words: Plan Your Marketing Strategy for 2025 with Ease_ by Jen Vazquez Media Pins
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6 | Fun Digital Marketing News December 2024: Marketing News Roundup: AI Growth, Pinterest Updates, and a Free Summit You Can’t Miss

6 | Fun Digital Marketing News December 2024: Marketing News Roundup: AI Growth, Pinterest Updates, and a Free Summit You Can’t Miss

by | Dec 17, 2024 | , , , ,

Fun Digital Marketing News December 2024: Marketing News Roundup: AI Growth, Pinterest Updates, and a Free Summit You Can’t Miss This week on the blog, we’re diving into some exciting marketing news – including jaw-dropping AI developments, Pinterest’s latest tools,...