Laura Belgray's Recent LinkedIn Posts

It's really not that hard to do a little research, Brian. (John Jantsch, thought you'd get a kick out of this one. Loved our interview -- Brian's missing out!)

I almost didn’t write and send this story in my newsletter. Not because I thought it would get me arrested for cake fraud… But because, while sometimes, I know exactly what a story’s point/takeaway/seamless call to action will be before I start writing it… This time, I felt like it would be the kind I enjoy writing but avoid sending my list. That’s the kind that peters out with a “So anyway, that happened and um, it was really funny…” See, it's one thing to tell a story like that at a dinner party. But in an email to your subscribers, you want your stories to arrive at a satisfying point. Your readers are eager to see where it's going. But I reminded myself that, even if I don’t start with a point, I always find one as I’m writing the story. And I did! Better yet, the point was an offer. Wanna see the email? You don’t have to comment “CAKE.” That was for the ‘Gram. Here you go: https://lnkd.in/eiWPdJ3x PS - are you judging me? Think I have no moral compass? Or would you do the exact same thing?

I don’t have the thickest skin. I do care what people think, even though I know I shouldn’t. It’s “none of my business” and all that. Luckily, I’ve learned the best way to make sure you don’t annoy or offend anyone with your stuff: Don’t post, publish, or send it! Keep your creative work private. Stash it in a secret google doc. Hide it under your pillow. Print it out, douse it in lighter fluid, stick it in a Cybertruck, light a match. Wallk away from the explosion without looking back. That’s not only the *best* way to avoid annoying or offending people… It’s the ONLY way. That is, unless you design all your work to be bland and inoffensive. But that’s annoying, so…🤷🏻‍♀️ MY POINT IS: If you express yourself, you’re going to annoy or offend someone. But if you don’t, you’ll be unfulfilled and whoever your stuff is meant for will be denied the joy of seeing it. So let ‘er rip, babe. Yes, I said “babe.” And “content.” Just to annoy myself! If you want help coming up with personal stories for your emails or other ✨content ✨ that will grip and delight the right people… While possibly annoying and offending the wrong ones and driving them away from your life… Grab my prompt guide, Story Goldmine: 63 surprising places to mine your everyday life for stories that sell. It’s at https://lnkd.in/efa4wpXH And yes: I’m aware the repurposed video points the wrong way, as usual. Whatcha gonna do.

Wanna use ChatGPT to tighten your writing without grinding it into AI lunchmeat? Good luck. Unless you try the prompt I developed (with a lot of all-caps berating of Chat. Since I got it nailed down, I’ve been using it to edit every email (and anything else I write). It makes Chat keep my voice and refrain from adding any of its ridiculous tics, under penalty of death. Find it here: https://lnkd.in/eFpkAQz9

Geek alert: This is actually what got me hooked on email marketing. In 2017, I was just messing around (likely when I had something else to do) and decided to play with ConvertKit's (now Kit's) new feature, which helped you set up a welcome sequence for your subscribers. Soon after I started running it, I saw results: Higher open rates... More replies... Better conversion with my offers... And, pretty soon, my first $100k payday (from an affiliate offer). I love it when stuff works! Have never looked back. If you ask me (and the data), there's only one wrong number of emails to put in a welcome sequence: Zero. But I also believe in having more, especially if you sell something. (If it's a straight-up newsletter you monetize in other ways, one might be enough.) Want help with your welcome sequence? My Welcome Sequence Workshop is available all the time, but right now I'm offering it at a very special price (1/3 off) when you add it at checkout for Inbox Hero. Check it out at https://lnkd.in/e_nsdxpz PS - Don't be that weird store!

This is a multimillion-dollar skill. No, not walking. I mean writing seemingly random stories and using them to generate sales. Unputdownable writing plus irresistible offer = sales. That’s the magic that keeps subscribers pouncing to open your emails…and staying to click the buy button. This seamless, logical bridge from story to offer is the part most emailers struggle with. I know, because it’s the number one question I get: “How do you pivot from a story to a takeaway or CTA [Call To Action]?” And I'm teaching it! Join me for... ☝️MAKE YOUR POINT LIVE Story-to-Sale Workshop Find the payoff in any story — to move your readers, and sell your stuff. In this never-before-offered, live workshop and RECORDING, you’ll learn how to: ✅ Seamlessly bridge from a story to a CTA
 (without that tacked-on “and now for my offer” moment) ✅ Connect personal writing to a product, offer, or idea that matters ✅ Give your story a point — whether it leads to a sale or just sticks the landing ✅ Keep your story’s soul intact — and still get the all-important click ✅ Reverse-engineer a story that sells what you're selling
 → Especially when you’re mid-launch and need to make the point fast
 → Learn how to start from your offer and build a story that makes your reader say, “I need this…” before they even get to the offer. And, get this: 

With Make Your Point, you’ll get access to: 🎁 THE POINT FINDER — a special AI tool I built just for this, and road tested with my own stories (it works!) This training jumps in price by 50% midnight ET tonight, Wednesday May 28th. Grab it now and join us! 👇 Https://https://lnkd.in/eDpSUyTV

“When’s your next book?” <— what everyone asks the second you release a book. Well, now I can say…tomorrow! MIDLIFE PRIVATE PARTS, a fabulous essay collection edited by Dina Aronson and Dina Alvarez (The Dinas) isn’t “my” book per se, but I’m proud to say MY writing is in it — I contributed a chapter, alongside 26 (I think) other superstar authors. So it’s *our* book. Comes out tomorrow, June 24th. Order your copy today at midlifeprivateparts.com. Pssst — my GenX and other midlife-identifying friends: this book is for you!

ChatGPT’s drunk bestie comes off like a 6th grader who just says “like” a lot. Maybe it thinks that’s what MY bestie would sound like drunk. Anyway, I prefer the drunk, belligerent male copywriter bro. Sounds like some of the dudes on my list. They start off like “OK, who’s this b---“ but they usually come around! I have compassion. I’m often jealous of my competitors. Even though I have no competition, bEcAUse nOonE is mE. Have you had a go with this prompt? How’d it describe you? Cheers! BTW, if you want to see this email-writing WITCHCRAFT I’ve “cracked,” sign up for my newsletter! Right at the top of https://talkingshrimp.com

Sorry, but anyone who's on here using ChatGPT to write your comments, spend some time trying 1-5 and don't even try arguing with No. 6. We can all tell. And if that is your real voice, maybe find another one. Per No. 4 — I’ve heard from more than a few people that reading my book and/or my emails somehow clued them in to their own writing voices. Find both at talkingshrimp.com. And you can grab 5 Secrets to Non-Sucky Copy at https://lnkd.in/g-xj8Jrc.

At dinner this week with a bunch of friends, the inevitable question came up: “Did you finish White Lotus?” My husband put out his hand in a “stop” gesture. “I haven’t watched this season yet! Don’t talk about it!” Nope. Nice try. I’ve been telling him to watch, because everyone’s talking about it and you can only avoid spoilers for so long. The conversation will keep going for weeks — at least. Wouldn’t it be nice to tell stories that people can’t stop talking or thinking about? I broke down 7 of Mike White’s storytelling tricks in this post so you can steal them. But I’ve got a bunch more that I used in my national bestseller, Tough Titties. I walk you through them in my course… UNPUTDOWNABLE Insider Secrets to Bingeworthy Storytelling In this 2-hour fan-favorite video training, you’ll learn: 🍬 Two words to avoid (almost always) when writing a memory 💭 – and what to use instead 🍬 🐔🍌5 ways to be funny (even if you’re writing about something heavy) 🍬 One key element of riveting writing you’re probably missing (I found out I was!) 👀 🍬 How to make yourself, your speaker, or any character more likable and relatable (hint – this is why we keep reading) 🍬 The "Twizzlers technique" that pumps up a flat paragraph 🎈 🍬 How to come to a conclusion when you don’t actually have one 🤷🏻‍♀️ 🍬 The "pressure cooker" method of keeping your reader on pins and needles 🍬 How truthful and accurate you need to be when writing something you partially remember – is it OK to fudge the details? 🍫🍫🍫 🍬 ✂️Oops, way too long! How to cut words without losing your favorite parts 🍬 How to craft a "mic drop" of an ending to any story 🎤 Plus q&a – lots of gold at the end! Includes full transcript and slides. Go to https://lnkd.in/eqgqKEap PS — What Easter eggs did you notice this season?

Not wanting to repeat something you’ve said before is like not wanting people to see you in an outfit twice. (She says, as she panics about what to wear on stage next month at Atomicon that she hasn't worn on the speaking stage before...) ⠀⁠⠀ ⠀⁠⠀ Think about it: will they really notice? If they do, great! That means it was notable. And they’re paying *almost* as much attention to you as you are.⠀⁠⠀ ⠀⁠⠀ Back in the day, they said it took 6 “impressions,” or viewings, for us to absorb a commercial on TV. (With attention spans now, probably 600.) And those commercials sure aren’t shy about running over and over and over. We get it, Geico. 15 minutes could save you 15% or more on car insurance. ⠀⁠⠀ ⠀⁠⠀ When you repeat a message over and over, people are more inclined to remember it — and attribute it to you. And if they roll their eyes and think, “That line again?” Then, guess what: it worked! They know you for it. They’ll remember it.⠀⁠⠀ ⠀⁠⠀ There’s power in repetition.⠀⁠⠀ There’s power in repetition. ⁠⠀ There’s power in — OK, you get it.⠀⁠⠀ ⠀⁠⠀ So don’t be afraid to repeat yourself. If anyone notices, then it was probably worth repeating.⁠⠀ And yes, this post is a repeat. How meta. ⠀⁠⠀ And at the risk of repeating myself some more, if you want more help with your messaging, grab my 5 secrets to non-sucky copy. https://lnkd.in/g-xj8Jrc I repeat: grab my 5 secrets to non-sucky copy. https://lnkd.in/g-xj8Jrc

Writing a hot mess… With no rhyme or reason? Thousands of words and you don’t know what it even is? Been there! Especially writing my book, but often when I’m writing an email to my list, too. At least half the time when I start one, I have no idea where it’s going. One thing that helps is The Pineapple Theory. Watch the vid. Have the opposite problem and don’t know where to start? No material coming out at all? Get your wheels turning and the fingers flying over the keyboard with my prompt guide: ⭐️ STORY GOLDMINE ⭐️ 63 Surprising Places To Mine Your Everyday Life For Stories That Sell It’s the ultimate idea bank of binge-worthy stories for your newsletter & marketing emails, but any one story could lead to a book (or a pineapple).

“Stop, please stop. I can’t hear any more of this.” 👆Actual quote from my husband when I insisted on reading him the email in question out loud. We were in the car, so there was no escape from the torture. As I keep saying, I have nothing against using AI to help you brainstorm or edit. (Research? Careful. ChatGPT fabricates shamelessly, and then when you ask it, “Is anything you just said true?” it confesses, apologizes, and promises to be better. And then it does it again. That’s Ramona Singer/Jax Taylor behavior for my fellow Bravo heads.) Anyhoo. You may think Chat is making you sound like a genius, and maybe it is to those who don’t recognize its style quirks yet. But for anyone who knows YOU, there’s going to be a big disconnect. Go see my last post for a list of chatgpt tells that are polluting the content landscape. They’ll probably take a million years to disintegrate, too. And FFS, develop your own voice. Bring your own life experience and POV to the writing. Don’t let AI make them up for you. Get my free guide... ⭐️ 5 Secrets to Non-Sucky Copy ⭐️ ...and start developing your own style. Https://talkingshrimp.com/secrets

I identify (and brand) myself as an unapologetic lazy person, so the sweat I put into marketing my national bestseller, Tough T*tties, made a lot of people question my reputation. I'm also known for being sweaty, on the other hand, so in that way I was fully in alignment with my public image. What can I tell you, I really wanted my book to be an undeniable hit. It's not easy to write a book. (Understatement alert.) After all the effort and agony that went into it, I couldn't imagine not throwing everything at its commercial success. My course, Book Launch Hero: A Kit and Masterclass in Bestseller Marketing and Bold Self-Promotion, will take you through everything I did to make it a national bestseller -- including the whole "book journey," from first word to publication. Until tonight (Friday, April 18th) at midnight ET, I'm offering a special fast-action bonus: My proposal, which got me the deal, and my query letter, which got me the agent. Plus a video walk-through of the query letter. Grab it all at https://lnkd.in/eNnJG9aB

A pinch-me moment. Also a crap-my-pants moment. That’s a wrap on #atomicon25! Andrew and Pete have created something super special. In other news, I’m kind of impressed with the Edits app. (Made this using it, while walking around.) It’s so easy to use!

OMG...STOP!! ☝️Believe it or not, these are the best words to get in an email reply. I don't mean when the subscriber writes back "STOP" because, somehow, in the 21st century, they don't know about the unsubscribe link at the bottom and seem to think the email is a text message. I mean, from someone who was determined not to buy another thing but couldn't resist your email and begs you to stop tempting them with your incredible emails. That's what happens when your emails draw subscribers in with compelling stories... ...and lead them smoothly and persuasively to the pitch. It's kind of my trademark move, and it's how I've generated millions in sales from emails I love to write. Best job ever. Unputdownable writing plus irresistible offer = sales. That’s the magic that keeps subscribers pouncing to open your emails…and staying to click the buy button. And I'm teaching it this week! Join me for... ☝️MAKE YOUR POINT​ ​LIVE Story-to-Sale Workshop Find the payoff in any story —  to move your readers, and sell your stuff. See details here: https://lnkd.in/eDpSUyTV

I'd lose Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader at the first question. I've forgotten...pretty much everything from school? But not what I learned about writing. I'm so glad this lesson stuck.

“WHERE IS THIS STORY GOING?” If you suspect your readers are wondering that, you’re probably right. Here’s what to do about it (watch video) Follow me for more tips on storytelling — especially, but not only, in your newsletter emails. And sign up for mine! They’re not short, but they’re tight n’ right. Subscribers (AKA my Shrimpers) tell me just reading them changes the way they write their own. Get in on the action right here, at talkingshrimp.com/signup Sound off in the comments - do you have a friend like that? Are YOU that friend?

Caught repeating your content? Been there. Here’s how I handle it — CELEBRATE! 🎉 You should, too. Get all full of yourself and conceited. Run a victory lap, do a touchdown dance. You’re a true artist. Because: If someone remembers and points out that they’ve seen something of yours before, that’s GREAT! It means your stuff is *that* good and *that* memorable. And that person is your biggest fan. If they’re actually tired of it? You should be so lucky! It means they’ve read it multiple times. I’m thrilled when my Talking Shrimp subscribers (AKA Shrimpers) reply and say “I always love reading this one” or “A classic! One of my faves.” Also: sometimes they need to see it that 2nd, 3rd, 11th time for it to hit the right way and get them to BUY. We all know any ad on TV requires like 11 impressions (used to be 6, keeps going up as attention spans go down) to register with the viewer. 👉TIP FOR REPEATING EMAILS: Do change the subject line once in a while. If I have one that’s killer, I run it again to the subscribers who are new since I last ran it, and write a new one for those who’ve seen it a few times. So put your best stuff on repeat! If you want to write emails worth repeating, my email copywriting course Inbox Hero will make it a done deal. It’s open till Monday night at a super special price, with bonuses. 🤩 Check it out here! Https://https://lnkd.in/e_nsdxpz

Talk about a dream speaking gig! I got to hang out in Mexico and talk to Erika Bryant ’s group, The Network, about how to get paid to be you. (Talk title: Paid to Be You). They were the warmest, most authentic group, curated and led by someone with a gift for making everyone feel included. No cliques, no cool kids’ table. Or, every table was the cool kid’s table. This is my new bar for an audience, setting, and climate (80 F°)— let’s just say I’m now spoiled for speaking gigs. (But available if you think your event meets that bar)

‼️📣 Double PSA! 1 - “Nobody’s programs are filling” is a lie 2 - I’m taking applications for the LAST spot in Shrimp Club! A year ago, I announced that it was the final round of Shrimp Club. I loved running it — but filling it, which had previously been easy, had become a slog. So much so, that I convinced myself it was time to retire it on a high note. And then, this round was so good and full of energy and big wins, and our NYC retreat was so fabulous, I wondered, “Why wouldn’t I do this again?” This time, though, I really wanted the process of filling it to be a lighter lift. I didn’t want to “muscle through” August when I should be enjoying my favorite season. I’m a summer gal. (Still refusing to say “summer girlie.”) I consulted with superstar Shrimp Club alum @brennamcgowanco. I come from a TV promo background. I’ve always preached the importance of building anticipation and seeding desire, AKA a "runway," for anything you’re launching. But Brenna’s taken the art of pre-launching to the next level. I saw the results her clients and students were getting using her method to pre-sell their own courses and programs and wanted in on her magic, so I consulted with her and did what she told me to. By the time I officially opened doors to this round of Shrimp Club, it was already 80% full. 20% of the spots were snapped up by repeat Shrimpers, which says a lot. We have the coolest cohort for round 8! And I’m having the most chill summer I’ve had in years. Interested in that last spot? Go to https://lnkd.in/ejJWGgVJ stat!

Was this 4-letter word I used in my email really necessary? It caused some outrage that could’ve been avoided… Btw if you didn’t hear about the writing sesh (ion), you must not be getting my emails. And if you want encouragement to be more you in your business, your writing, your life, you should sign up. Cause any outrage lately yourself? Do tell!

Worst marketing and writing advice I hear — Wait, before I get to the bad advice, I should correct the record. I don’t actually eat avocado toast for breakfast. ❌🥑🥪 As my subscribers (AKA my Shrimpers) know from years of highly personal emails, I eat watermelon chunks from Citarella. (“Hold my watermelon chunks” doesn’t have quite the same ring to it.) ☝️The fact is, those details about your life not only make you relatable and bring your writing to life… They also make your audience feel like a *part* of your life. Like they’re insiders. They feel a special bond with you, and so of course when everyone’s offering what you offer, YOU are the one they’re going to buy from. So, the worst advice I hear (and I hear it over and over in the online marketing space) is: 👎“Your audience/reader/client/prospect doesn’t care about YOU. They care about how you can HELP them.” I’m delighted to report, millions of dollars in sales from my very personal emails (and national bestseller, Tough Titties) say that’s wrong. So do many, many millions in sales generated from the emails of my 3200+ ( 🤯)INBOX HERO alums. INBOX HERO is my signature email copywriting course that helps make you the bright spot in your subscriber’s inbox. 💡It’ll show you how to inject YOUR stories… 💡YOUR personality… 💡and maybe even YOUR avocado toast… …into your emails — and make bank while doing it. It’s open this week with a special insider price (50% off the everyday price tag) and fat bonuses that disappear tomorrow (Weds, Jan 29th at 11:59pm ET). Get in there! Here’s the link: Https://https://lnkd.in/e_nsdxpz And yes, I realize the “hear me out” should be pointing up. Couldn’t bear to redo it.

All this said, I’m loving Ann Handley’s just-released Justice for Em Dash merch.

Politics are no longer a separate topic. Agree?

Would you rather be: a) paid to be you… Or b) paid to exist? What’s the difference? Well… Getting paid to be you, as I define it, means: Making your brand and business (or other work) a total expression of your personality, while creating this thing called “value” that people will hand you money for. Getting paid to exist, meanwhile, means: Living your life however you want, and pocketing a fat paycheck for it. For me, that would look like: 🍽️ going out to dinner a whole lot; 🏖️ swimming in the Med in summer and the Caribbean in winter; 📚📺🍨 lying around everyday cycling between a great book, a binge of Real Housewives, and a rewatch of some peak TV show like The Sopranos, all while eating melting* Häagen-Dazs... And then receiving a massive, recurring direct deposit with a note: “Great job existing. Keep it up!” Sadly, I haven’t found anyone who’ll pay me to exist. (Accepting offers, though) Instead, I’ve made a very successful pursuit of getting paid to be me. In other words, making GREAT money by expressing myself (and, by extension, helping others do the same thing). Yes, that means work – but it’s the holy grail of work... ...where you take so much joy in what you do that you look up and hours have passed. And, where you get to call the shots. Everything I offer in my business, Talking Shrimp, is in service of helping you get paid to be you. Especially Shrimp Club, my high-touch, 8-month live mentoring party (AKA “mastermind”)... ...which reopened for applications this week. Consider it a high-touch, collaborative “paid to be you” bootcamp. If you’re interested, don’t wait. 3 spots left! Go to https://lnkd.in/ejJWGgVJ.

Got content mindset blocks? For me, it’s about shooting any video with my husband — or anyone — nearby. (B-roll is one thing; I’d rather run through Times Square stark naked except for a belly necklace and Ugg boots than have him in the room while I actually try to record myself TALKING.) For you, it might be about writing emails to your list. 💭Cue thought bubble over your head… 🙈Is this too “unprofessional”? 🙈Too dry and academic? 🙈Too long and boring? 🙈Too personal? TMI? 🙈Will people unsubscribe if I’m this honest? 🙈Am I “giving value”? 🙈Is everyone going to say “Why am I reading this?” 🙈Why isn’t it coming out as funny as it was in my head? 🙈Should I scrap it? 🙈Maybe I should only write my list when I have something really important to say. 🙈Why am I doing this again? 🤔 my 9-5 wasn’t *that* bad… If you’ve had any of these thoughts, I’ve got the thing for you. Enter INBOX HERO, my signature email copywriting course! It’s helped over 3200 business owners, freelancers, service providers, authors, experts, copywriters, fine artists, retailers, you name it… …to write emails their subscribers race to open, devour, and buy from. It won’t protect you from being cruelly mocked while shooting video, but it’ll help you get comfortable and even LOVE writing your newsletter/marketing emails. Even if you make a “simpy” face while typing. It’s open at a special price through tomorrow (Monday, Feb 3rd). After midnight ET, the bonuses disappear and the price goes back up (to double). Check it out at https://lnkd.in/e_nsdxpz

Are you still writing the old-fashioned way — by actually WRITING? ✍️ Like, instead of having AI write for you? 👏 Clapping for you over here. You’re not behind for 2025. You’re AHEAD. AI can be trained to sound just like you, I’m sure (I haven’t seen proof, though everyone insists it can.) But AI can’t come up with original thoughts for you. It can’t tell us what you’re feeling today, or conjure up memories and stories and points of view that are in your brain. You can’t use it to express yourself, because it isn’t yourself. 🎨 If you were a painter, would you have AI paint for you? 💃🏾🕺🏽If you were a dancer, would you have it dance for you? (Bet it dances with an overbite). This will always be true: YOU CAN’T OUTSOURCE SELF-EXPRESSION And why would you want to? Isn’t that one of the best things in life? And even better when you’re paid for it? I take great pride in my emails/newsletter/ whatever you want to call it/them (“newsletter” has become more trendy). They stand out. They get great replies. People (the smart, fun ones) love opening and reading them. Readers even say they’ve helped them to write like themselves (without AI). Get in on the action and sign up. Link in bio. And if you want help unearthing all those endless memories and stories and original thoughts stored in your brain, grab my free prompt guide: ⭐️ STORY GOLDMINE: 63 Surprising Places To Mine Your Everyday Life For Stories That Sell. ⭐️ I’ll drop the link in the comments!

I’ve been told this might be relevant on LinkedIn.

"How can I write with specific detail if I don't even remember what I had for breakfast?" If you're wondering that, the answer is: LIE. Make stuff up. This is one place I've found ChatGPT actually helpful for my writing. "I'm writing a story about an argument I had sitting outside at a NYC cafe in mid July of 2004. What might I have experienced around me?" Its answers are pretty dead-on. I'd feel emotionally truthful using them, even if those aren't my actual memories. Here's a thought: Just because it's made up doesn't mean it's dishonest. Want more tips for storytelling that keeps your audience riveted (instead of yawning and glazing over)? Grab my course UNPUTDOWNABLE Insider Secrets to Binge-Worthy Storytelling https://lnkd.in/eqgqKEap

This boss from my TV days is on here (hi!) and knows who she is, so just for clarity, "old boss" means *former* boss. Not OLD-old. She used this “audience POV” trick that I stole and use for writing emails. (The subject lines, especially.) I recommend you steal it, too. And use my guide to nonsucky, must-open subject lines. People tell me they keep it printed out and never write a subject line without it. You can get it for free at https://lnkd.in/eR2sTwiu

If I do a search for the word “slap” in my Shrimp Club group, the results show years of #slapshitup wins. The most recent is from Chad, who said, “The new side biz I started in March has started exploding….Everything is currently the “slap shit up” version, which is working, but once this thing is 100% dialed in it might just change the world.” There you have it: Slap shit up, change the world. 👉What’s the most recent awesome shit you slapped up? (Psst - Been eyeing Shrimp Club? It's over half full for the 2025-26 round, which starts in October. The early birds are already in the FB group and included in our summer 90-day Content Streak – a challenge starting the first week of June. Applications officially open again in August, but if you want to join as an early bird to kickstart your slap-shit-up mode, message me! You can check out the program at https://lnkd.in/ejJWGgVJ. )

I had a college housemate who was fluent in English, which was impressive even though she grew up in the US - because her first language was clearly Passive Aggressive. 
She’d leave post-its like: LAURA: Were you going to wash this pot you used? If not, let me know. I’ll do it and get it out of the sink. :) She’d jingle her keys and announce, “I’m just running out for more salad stuff, because mine weirdly disappeared! Anyone need anything?” But the line that really stuck came when I was elected for the Phi Beta Kappa award. She cornered me by the fridge: 
“Katie and I were talking, and we were like, damn, Laura had the right idea. We should’ve taken it easy and done just four classes a semester too — maybe we would’ve gotten Phi Beta Kappa!” “Yeah,” I said, processing the non-compliment. “Maybe you should’ve.” We had a choice each semester: four classes or five.
I chose four. Always. Would the extra class have given more bang for my parents’ tuition buck? Maybe. But probably not. 
Because I would’ve spiraled, hated life, and ended up with mono. I’ve always known my limits. And respected them. 
I don’t like stress. I don’t like homework. I don’t like more of anything that ends in “work.” Does that make me lazy? Absolutely.
And I’m good with it. When I said in my mastermind, Shrimp Club, that I don’t value being busy, one of the members told me: “Just hearing you say that made my head explode.” (In a good way.) She needed to hear it. Maybe you do, too. If you join Shrimp Club and you love working the hardest, I won’t talk you out of it. 
But if you’re dying for permission to drop from the figurative five classes to four?
You’ll get plenty of it. Shrimp Club applications are now OPEN.
80% full as of last week — 4 spots left. 📌 Apply here → https://lnkd.in/ejJWGgVJ 
(Quick + painless application, because who needs more work?) Early-bird bonus: Apply and join within a week, and you’ll get a 1-on-1 Power Hour with me. Not available on the open market.

We all have those moments in our work. Right? RIGHT? Well, even if you’re always 100% “aligned” as the kids call it, you need to do this. I don’t care what you call it: 😀📁Smile file… Compliment cache… Validation station… Praise portfolio… Chuff chest — for the UK crowd - that work? Ego depot… Boost bank… Boast bank… Brag bank… Gloat tote… (Now there’s a valid use for ChatGPT. It helped me come up with some seriously goofy alts.) You should have an album (or file folder) where you keep screenshots of nice things people say about your work. Even if you don’t need the ego boost/ reminder of your purpose now and then, we business owners ALL need social proof. Tell me below — do you do this? Do you have a name for the album or folder? And: What’s the nicest thing someone said to you recently about your work?

"ChatGPT could never" is what I'm looking for when I write or read something. My heart sinks a little when I read a friend's newsletter and, even if it's using a legit personal story, the style and little witticisms stink of AI. I think, "She'd never actually make that joke." Delete. That doesn't mean I'm against AI. On the contrary! I've even created my own AI tool, The Point Finder. It's included in my new story-to-sale training, MAKE YOUR POINT. It helps you easily find the point of your story (if you're missing one) and create a seamless, persuasive bridge to an offer or other CTA. Starting with an offer and want to find a story that naturally sets it up? The Point Finder will help you do that, too. A master at reverse-engineering. And it's trained on human storytelling, not bot soup. I even told it never to insert an emdash where there wasn't one already, though sometimes it can't help itself. Check out the rave reviews at https://lnkd.in/eDpSUyTV

Amen, Cole Schafer.

Tell me - do you get nervous to repeat yourself to your audience? ⠀⁠⠀ Know this: When you repeat a message over and over, people are more inclined to remember it — and attribute it to you. They feel smart already knowing it. Sometimes they’re glad to hear it again and say, “I needed to hear that again.” And if they roll their eyes and think, “That line again?” Then, guess what: it worked! They know you for it. They’ll remember it.⠀⁠⠀ ⠀⁠⠀ There’s power in repetition.⠀⁠⠀ There’s power in repetition. ⁠⠀ There’s power in — OK, you get it.⠀⁠⠀ ⠀⁠⠀ So don’t be afraid to repeat yourself. If anyone notices, then it was probably worth repeating.⁠⠀ That said — at the risk of repeating my own bad self, if you want help with your messaging, grab my 5 secrets to non-sucky copy. One more time: if you want help with your messaging, grab my 5 secrets to non-sucky copy. Https://talkingshrimp.com/secrets #powerofrepetition #messaging #brandmessaging #brandmessage #speakingtips #marketingstrategy #contentwritingtips

Ann Handley, thank you for your analog (and not Claude-generated) realness. “We’ve made patience feel like a liability.” So true.

I hate speaking! I love speaking! Who’s with me? Just finished and it went so well and now I can live again. So grateful to Dance Studio Owners Association for having me and for buying copies of Tough Titties for all 350 attendees! Heading back down in a few to sign them. Will celebrate tonight with some questionable hotel sushi, or maybe just guacamole because I value my life.

If anyone tries to shame you for promoting your business right now… Well, in the words of Mel Robbins, LET THEM. (Listening to her book on Audible rn, loving it.) It’s up to you what you do and what you think is right… But it’s not up to you what people think about it. Someone’s always going to be offended, no matter what you do. I think it’s thoughtful and helpful to acknowledge what’s going on in the world and help however we can, but there’s always something going on in the world — and we can’t stop doing business every time there is, no matter how close to home. During these times, there will always be business shaming, especially on social media. I’ve seen a lot of “Hard no to anyone launching right now” or “If you post about your sale this week, I’m blocking you.” Well I’m in the camp of shaming the business shamers. I don’t like self-righteousness. And you don’t do anyone any favors by making less money. More money means more to give. Agree? Have you been business shamed? Drop a comment and lmk!

Talk about a dream speaking gig! I got to hang out in Mexico and talk to Erika Bryant ’s group, The Network, about how to get paid to be you. (Talk title: Paid to Be You). They were the warmest, most authentic group, curated and led by someone with a gift for making everyone feel included. No cliques, no cool kids’ table. Or, every table was the cool kid’s table. This is my new bar for an audience, setting, and climate (80 F°)— let’s just say I’m now spoiled for speaking gigs. (But available if you think your event meets that bar)

WTF does it mean to “give value”??? ‘Round these parts (the online space), people use the word “value” (or, as I call it, the V-word) out the ying-yang. “If you want more signups to your list, get known for delivering tons of value in your emails.” “You’re listening to the Value Blast Podcast, and you’d better duck, Value Nation! Because you’re about to be hit with Value Bomb after Value Bomb.” Back in the days of Clubhouse (trauma alert) every room would have someone who announced “I’m just here to drop gems and add value.” 🤮 It’s not untrue that people are looking for value. The problem is that VALUE often seems like it’s defined as educational, informational, actionable content. Tips and takeaways, etc. And, as a result, it has us scared to create. “I haven’t emailed my list this week because I don’t have anything of value to say.” NOT TRUE. Value does not always = “handy” or “useful” or “newsworthy.” VALUE 👏COMES 👏IN 👏OTHER 👏FORMS 👏 You’re giving ✨value✨ when you: ✅ Entertain us ✅ Make us laugh ✅ Distract us from our problems ✅ Get us teary-eyed ✅ Give us goosebumps ✅ Get us riled up ✅ Inspire us ✅ Spill the tea ✅ Recommend one thing (a book, show, movie, video, article, song) you love ✅ Give us permission to do something we didn’t think was “allowed” And, most of all: ✅ Make us feel less alone and more normal (“Oh, thank god, I’m not the only one.”) Your personal stories and point of view are VALUABLE. If you need help and inspo to generate a crap-ton of value in your emails and elsewhere… My story prompt guide is still free (for now)! ⭐️ STORY GOLDMINE ⭐️ 63 Surprising Places To Mine Your Everyday Life For Stories That Sell Get it at https://lnkd.in/e3B_xGBz But if you're ready for the next level of VALUE... Inbox Hero, my signature email copywriting course, will have you writing emails that have your subscribers saying "Yours are the only emails I open and read!" and "Your newsletter is so good, I save every one in a folder so I can reread them later." and also: "I get so sucked in to your emails, and then I end up buying!" It's open at a special price until Monday, Feb 3rd at midnight ET. https://lnkd.in/e_nsdxpz

I had a college housemate who was fluent in English, which was impressive even though she grew up in the US - because her first language was clearly Passive Aggressive. 
She’d leave post-its like: LAURA: Were you going to wash this pot you used? If not, let me know. I’ll do it and get it out of the sink. :) She’d jingle her keys and announce, “I’m just running out for more salad stuff, because mine weirdly disappeared! Anyone need anything?” But the line that really stuck came when I was elected for the Phi Beta Kappa award. She cornered me by the fridge: 
“Katie and I were talking, and we were like, damn, Laura had the right idea. We should’ve taken it easy and done just four classes a semester too — maybe we would’ve gotten Phi Beta Kappa!” “Yeah,” I said, processing the non-compliment. “Maybe you should’ve.” We had a choice each semester: four classes or five.
I chose four. Always. Would the extra class have given more bang for my parents’ tuition buck? Maybe. But probably not. 
Because I would’ve spiraled, hated life, and ended up with mono. I’ve always known my limits. And respected them. 
I don’t like stress. I don’t like homework. I don’t like more of anything that ends in “work.” Does that make me lazy? Absolutely.
And I’m good with it. When I said in my mastermind, Shrimp Club, that I don’t value being busy, one of the members told me: “Just hearing you say that made my head explode.” (In a good way.) She needed to hear it. Maybe you do, too. If you join Shrimp Club and you love working the hardest, I won’t talk you out of it. 
But if you’re dying for permission to drop from the figurative five classes to four?
You’ll get plenty of it. Shrimp Club applications are now OPEN.
80% full as of last week — 4 spots left. 📌 Apply here → https://lnkd.in/ejJWGgVJ 
(Quick + painless application, because who needs more work?) Early-bird bonus: Apply and join within a week, and you’ll get a 1-on-1 Power Hour with me. Not available on the open market.

Conflict avoidant? Me too, in my own life. But not in my stories (or my TV watching -- love my Real Housewives). It what makes for a compelling story, and it's all around you. Which means...so are stories! Even if you think you have a "boring" life. There, just busted your excuse for not writing more frequent emails to your list. I promise, you can learn to come up with everyday stories that makes them pounce to open YOUR emails — whether or not anything “big” has happened. The stories don’t find you; You find them. If you want help with that, def check out my guide Story Goldmine, which you can grab for free at https://lnkd.in/efa4wpXH

Ooooh, someone sent a NASTY reply to my newsletter last week. It asked “Don’t you have anything to say about [thing I’d just specifically written about]” and called me a “stupid b----“ (which I guess is mildly better than “stupid c---“). I wasn’t kidding that I work myself up to fire off a response. But my advice, if/when this happens to you, is: 📢 *crackle* STEP AWAY FROM THE KEYBOARD. Save your (virtual) breath.

It took everything in me not to write the fartweasel back & tear him a new one before blocking him. But I didn’t. Why bother? Will this chucklehead learn something? Will he apologize, “I was having a hard day and my anger has nothing to do with you & everything to do with me and my dissatisfaction with life” and then become my favorite customer? Yeahno. Why spend the energy (even if I’ve already spent it formulating responses in my head)? Once in a while, I admit I’ll write back “Who hurt you?” Or “Feel better!” for funsies. The replies that get me cracking my knuckles aren’t always abusive. Sometimes they’re just obtuse: “UNSUBSCRIBE ME!” 🙄Ummm, Cheryl, the unsubscribe link is at the bottom, right where it should be. Sometimes they’re condescending & critical. My emails should be shorter. Less frequent. They should sell less/ sell more. They’re unprofessional bc I curse. They’re unprofessional bc I end on prepositions. They’re offensive to vegans bc I mention hamburgers or a down coat. I rarely respond to those, either. If they’re well-meaning & polite, sometimes I’ll reply thoughtfully, explaining why I write my emails the way I do. (Because it works! It’s the most fun way to make a living! I’m writing for the person who loves my style, not the one who wants it to be different.) Often, I use them as fodder for my next email. (Tip: Your audience loves to see how you respond to trolls. It only makes them rally around you more strongly.) I don’t have a thick skin. Jerk replies always sting even when they’re stupid. But they’re always funny later. Have you had trolls in your inbox? If so, how do you respond?

As a writer, I see life as "before I understood this" and after. And now, when someone's writing is missing it, I can't even get through it. (Unless I'm editing.) "It" is specificity. Concrete, original detail. This element is like a magic wand for your writing — whether it’s sales copy, an email story, a personal essay, or a steamy romance novel. (Well, especially a steamy romance novel. Can’t gloss over those details, now! 👀) Whenever I’m editing copy for my Shrimp Club members on a hot seat call or my Inbox Hero students on a live Email Makeover Jam, I find myself saying over and over, “I want specific details here. Examples. What does *stepping into your power* LOOK like? ❓Does it mean finally speaking up in work meetings before someone steals your idea? ❓ Does it mean telling your family you’re not coming to Thanksgiving this year? ❓ Does it mean wearing that miniskirt you love even though your partner said it’s too short? ❓Does it mean finally telling that partner to F off? LET’S GET SPECIFIC!” I only yell in my head, promise. Get more transformative writing tips with my much-loved, much-printed-out guide, 5 Secrets to Non-Sucky Copy Go to https://lnkd.in/g-xj8Jrc

Yeaterday, I made a big decision and announcement. (No, not my running mate.) Since 2019, I’ve run a hugely successful business/copywriting mastermind called Shrimp Club. I decided this next round, its 7th, will be the final one. Why? Because it feels complete. I thought about my favorite series. Most of them last 6-7 seasons and then end on a high note. I think that’s the way to go. Anyone here ever discontinue something that’s still working great?

I can smell these from a mile away. They reek of “trying too hard.” Before you em-dash lovers get up in arms, I love it too. Always have. It's not the use of these writing elements. It's the overuse. The ABUSE And before you scream that I’m AI-shaming: 1 — I don’t think using AI is “cheating.” But writing that sounds like everyone else and/or like ChatGPT is a huge turnoff to me. And even if it doesn’t turn off your ideal reader, it’s not going to help you stand out. 2 — I’m not telling you not to use AI to *help* you write. I’ve been using Chat as a brainstorming partner and souped-up thesaurus more and more. But if I have it write so much as a sentence *clause* for me, I almost always have to change it, almost completely. In fact, I asked it to write me an IG caption for this post, and I think it’s trolling itself!  A ChatGPT self-own! Behold: “In this carousel, I’m calling out the ChatGPT writing tells that make me want to crawl under my desk and live there. From squirrel jokes to “chef’s kiss” sass to that triple beat it can’t stop hitting—it’s all in here. And hey, this isn’t about banning tools. It’s about knowing your voice so you don’t sound like you outsourced your personality. Want to develop a writing style that doesn’t feel pre-chewed? Comment PUKE and I’ll DM you my 5 Secrets to Non-Sucky Copy.” How many tells do you count right in that passage? Drop your most-hated Chat tics below. And grab 5 Secrets to Non-Sucky Copy at https://lnkd.in/g-xj8Jrc

Y’all. Maybe I’m wrong? Maybe you see this phrase and say “OH GOODIE” like a psycho. But I think it should be banned. I think you should tell your copywriter it’s a no-no. You? Tell me what you think!

What a great way to get your next client or buyer without - constant posting - desperate DMs - a single ad - “showing up consistently.” All those things are great (kidding, desperate DMs suck and consistency can get exhausting) but this way involves typing comments and wearing whatever the f you want - maybe even nothing, if you’re off camera. Ready? She did it by showing up live to one of my workshops and being active in the chat. That’s it. Someone recognized her name, connected with her, and bought her high-ticket nutrition certification program. Want to try this out in the hottest chat around? There are 3 spots left for my mastermind/live mentoring party, Shrimp Club. (Maybe 2, just issued an invitation.) Shrimp Club members not only get their own private calls; they get invited to any workshops I offer as bonuses for other programs, and more. Lotta chat action. Go to https://lnkd.in/ejJWGgVJ for deets. PS - Shrimpers who apply and join before Monday will get a coveted 1:1 Power Hour with me. Off the market since 2019, when I charged $1450/hour. Let’s go!

You’re a funny and brilliant writer. Want my help bringing that out? Here are a couple of ways: 1️⃣ (the “dip your toe” level) — grab my training UNPUTDOWNABLE: Insider Secrets to Binge-Worthy Storytelling It shows you 3 ways to bring the funny to your writing, among many other techniques to bring out your voice and keep your reader’s eyes on the page. Go to https://lnkd.in/eqgqKEap 2️⃣ [LAST DAY!] (the “all-in Shrimper” level) — Join Shrimp Club, my 8-month live mentoring party AKA mastermind, as an early bird by 11:59pm ET Monday, May 19th… …And get a free ticket to my first-ever NYC writing workshop in March. The workshop will be back-to-back with our annual Shrimp Club retreat, so you’ll be in for a 3-day creative bonanza. I just dropped this big offer to my list. Chances are, if you’re someone who’s going to sign up for it, you’re on that list and have seen the emails. So this is really an extra nudge for you. But in case you’re not on my email list and this sounds like something you want, here’s the email I sent this morning (apologies for the ugly url): https://lnkd.in/edH6TEuf

Y’all! The Copy Cure is coming back for a flash. If you’ve been meaning to take it for years, don’t miss Marie’s “Sicilian Offer”