Blog Smarter

The 4-month online mentorship for bloggers who want to grow their business, blog less, and live more.

Sure, you could blog your life away.

You could squint at your Macbook until 1:30am,
wearily hammering out that third post for the week.

You could check your Pinterest-Facebook-Twitter-Instagram-Analytics
like a trained rat hitting the “food” button.

You could take on sponsored posts you hate,
just to raise your average blogging income to $4 per hour,

and pray that a big blogger links to you…soon.

Or, you can learn how to connect with the right audience
and uncover the one thing they really want to buy from you
…that was in front of your face the entire time.

Introducing Blog Smarter

The only online mentorship program for bloggers who want to quit limping along in the blogging rat race ... and break through to confidence, clarity, and - yes - cash, built atop your own solid brand.

Who It's For

The Frustrated Blogger

You’ve been doing everything they said “successful bloggers” do.
Writing three posts a week.
Optimizing images.
Leaving comments.
…but still, the followers just don’t come.

And you’re starting to wonder:

What if those big bloggers do know something you don’t?

The fact is, it doesn’t matter how many images you use
or how often you share your posts on Pinterest.
It doesn’t matter how many words you write
or how many badges you add to your sidebar.

You’re shouting louder and LOUDER to get anyone to follow your blog,
when the big secret is?

People don’t follow blogs.
They follow leaders.

(…and leadership? Is something you can learn.)

The Tired Blogger

All those late nights, the Twitter parties, the two-hour link share sessions–
they’re just about to do you in.
If you’d known that getting traffic would be this hard?
You’d have quit before you started.
And it’s mind-numbingly frustrating to watch brand new bloggers cast out their lines
and reel in the “big fish” – while you’re still wading in the tide pool.

But deep down, you already know it:
The blogger who spends the most time blogging?
Dies tired.

The fact is, it doesn’t take 100K pageviews a month
to be a successful entrepreneur.

You can get away with blogging much less
if you build smart systems for your blog
that turn visitors into subscribers
and subscribers?
Into buyers.

And they’ll bend (their wallets) over backwards to thank you for it.

The Ambitious Blogger

You have goals. Dreams. Momentum.
You’ve put on those Big Girl Pants and turned that blogging dream
into blogging dollars.

…but all those late nights are starting to add up.
And if your partner has to go to bed alone many more times,
He’s going to ask you to get a real job.

This isn’t a “cute hobby” –
you have to make it work.
Not just for your family,
But for yourself.

So lean in and I’ll tell you a secret:
What you need?
Isn’t more followers.

With a simple discovery process, you can unlock the authority and credibility that will start winning hearts and minds right now so they won’t just be your followers
…they’ll be wide-eyed, white-knuckled, rooftop-shouting fans.

And you can let the world’s most loyal readers –
come chasing after you.

What You’ll Learn

Empire Building 101. Or, how to stick your flag in the sand and claim your corner of the Internet (without looking like an amateur)

Why mattering more to fewer people actually gives you the FOCUS your business needs...and how to find that tiny 4%. After all, they're right under your nose...
There’s only one way you can attract the right readers like a moth to a bonfire. And the answer is not “finding your voice.” (Gag.)
The Zoom and Pan technique for planning your blogosphere takeover (hint: All those eggs in one basket? Make for a great appetizer...)
When you’re first getting started, you dive in and start writing from the heart and sharing links on Facebook and Twitter. Bad news: This is the quickest way you’ll sink that new blog before it ever leaves the dock.
...but do this right and you won’t have to convince people to follow you—they’ll line up.

Why would anyone follow ME? Or, carving out a brand that will magnetize your blog and attract 226% more readers (Not counting your mom) (No offense, Mom)

Stand out from every other blogger on the block--and strategically use your own experience to do it in a way that gives you authority, credibility, and mega brand power
The most important, non-negotiable components of any popular blog…from a marketing standpoint (Hint: if you simply offer “more,” they won’t care—you’ve got to grab their heartstrings and make them nod their heads in agreement).
Once you’ve got this element in place, something exciting happens: People start hanging on every word you say. But none of that matters if you can’t tell them the one word they need to hear.

When you really want to look different from every other blogger, but you don’t have thousands of dollars for a custom design. Or, how to create a brand experience so your readers stop twirling their hair and pay attention.

Figure out the real reason why people get to your website, and then say “No thanks” before bouncing out.
How to get new readers to forget about the Pinterest rabbit hole and glue their eyeballs to your site--all with this little tweak.
What to do if and when you work with a blog designer--and how to make sure you’re getting a design that does the heavy lifting for you.
The anatomy of a powerful About page—You need it. We’ll walk you through drilling down to the most important pieces, what “trust conversion” means, and what you absolutely need to leave out of your own.
Setting up a smart system for streamlining your images (of all things!) that’s going to make people sit up and pay attention to you, no matter where they are on the Internet (after all, your posts will be shared everywhere)

Convert and Conquer, or, Who are these people, and how can I get them to STAY? Learn the art of converting one-time visitors to loyal fans by way of the #1 tool everyone says is dead...but secretly isn’t.

New readers will burst in and demand to join your email list--as long as you set this up correctly first.
Strategically planning, building, and delivering an offer in a way guaranteed to bring only the right people to your community--and compel them to drag their friends to your doorstep.
Getting all the technical details squared away--Do you need to pay for your mailing list? What do you do about newsletters? Or a fancy email signature? (You’re really making this harder than it should be.)
Learn the right way to handle unsubscribes without breaking into a cold sweat or crying yourself to sleep
Tricks for getting to know your readers, without having to spend all your money flying to big conferences (yes, those relationships are worth their weight in gold)

Implementation Weeks (throughout) -- Or, Get 'er done!

If you're concerned you won't have time for this program, stop worrying. You can wave goodbye to busywork as it swirls down the pooper, because every single Blog Smarter assignment is designed to grow your blog and business.

Use several week-long & holiday breaks during the program to catch up, get help, or forge ahead with the support of your team.

Grow Viral: The art of building your community without being a slave to the Facebook gods (hint: it doesn’t matter how much traffic you get - if you’re not doing this, you’re chasing your tail!)

The #1 thing you can and should do if you’re just getting started and have no readers and no money (don’t worry—this can actually help you build your empire faster if you do it right from the beginning!)
Ask the right questions to get the right answers--and ensure you’re investing your time writing only the posts that connect and inspire
Where to get the very best blog post ideas--and how to structure them so they practically promote themselves
Every time you publish a post, you’re training your readers to click, read, and share...or to flat-out ignore you. Already blew it? Don’t worry - you can use this high-level marketing technique for retraining those brains and getting your readers to grow your blog for you.
My own content creation process, and how I’ve invested up-front time to make sure my readers share my posts, without me having to spend all my time on social media (This one trick will save you HOURS every week!)
Just because you could spend 40 hours a week blogging doesn’t mean you should: This system for organizing your to-do list doesn’t only keep you sane, but helps you dump the guilt, confusion, and stress (because blogging should be fun, amiright?)

Words out, money in. How to get paid without selling your soul (but do this wrong, and you’re better off working at the corner store hocking cigarettes and gas)

A process for making money from your blog without offending readers—so you can avoid one of the biggest mistakes bloggers make when they’re just getting started
The secret to monetizing your past success in a way that doesn’t only make you money now, but keeps it rolling in the future
Learning how to sell your time the smart way—and avoid endless email conversations from readers who want to “pick your brain”
Playing the percentages to walk away from every blogging session with maximum profit, without that icky feeling you’ve been used (or worse, are building someone else’s business instead of your own)
Of all the methods for making money blogging, only three get you off the back of the bus and put you squarely in the driver’s seat. This mindset shift will take you from broke blogger to Smart CEO...and from “giving yourself a job” to running a sustainable business.

Don’t be another good choice.
Learn how to become the only choice.

What's Included

Blog Smarter is offered in 6 learning modules, with several weeks scheduled throughout the program for integration.
Each module, released regularly throughout the program, includes videos, downloadable tools, skill-building exercises, and the opportunity to apply the content immediately to your blog and business.

Check out our 2018-2019 program calendar here

The Blog Smarter Program begins October 29th.
(I've been told the research methods + templates alone are worth the cost of the course!)

COURSE CONTENT

Delivered via online platform and released over 18 weeks (Hello, holidays!). Work on your own time, but with the structure and support to keep you moving forward as the CEO of your business.

SMART SYSTEMS + TEMPLATES

Learn the exact system I used to build Biz Mavens (formerly The Blog Maven) from scratch, with zero online contacts and absolutely no guest posting. This program is chock-full of examples, inspiration, and copy-and-paste templates that are worth their weight in gold.

BRAND-BUILDING ASSIGNMENTS

Every Blog Smarter assignment has been intentionally designed to give you clarity, insight, and mega brand power. We’ll treat you like the CEO you are...so you can kiss busywork goodbye.

ONE-TO-ONE GRADUATE MENTORING

Individual support from Blog Smarter graduates to help you meet your goals. Your team leader will help you identify opportunities, navigate difficult decisions, and review and give feedback on your assignments. Whatever you need, they'll support you along the way.

LIBRARY OF PAST GROUP COACHING/QA SESSIONS

Past students in the Intensive Mastermind program (not currently available) asked questions, shared homework they wanted feedback on, and asked for help applying smarter systems to their blog and business — and now you have access to this treasure trove! These interactive calls were led by me personally and reveal deeper insights on all aspects of your brand: the headwork, the heartwork, and your blog itself.

COMMUNITY

Get access to an experienced, honest, and supportive community of goal-driven bloggers via a private forum. This is a space where you can ask questions, get feedback, and share resources without fear of judgment. Your community is your Team.

“The dream is free, but the hustle is sold separately”

- STEPHEN C. HOGAN

About the Instructor

Jeni Elliott, MA, EdM, is a marketing strategist and founder of Biz Mavens, a community of over 34,000 bloggers who blog to live, not live to blog. Her clients include A-list bloggers and entrepreneurs on the move. Jeni believes in building smart systems on the front end, so no matter how much traffic you get, your blog is always moving forward.

OUR GUARANTEE

14 Day Money Back Guarantee (No risk!)
No hoops — just send us an email

We are in the business of turning run-ragged bloggers into Smart CEOs. If you do the work and for any reason you are not thrilled with the content and the potential impact it will have in your business, we will refund your tuition 100% within the first 14 days with a smile. No hoops. Just send us an email.

Here’s what Blog Smarter grads are saying...

CARLA SANCHEZ

Organic Life TV

I was all over the place with my blogging-

I was putting all my time into things that weren’t taking me anywhere financially. The Blog Smarter program gave me clarity and a specific path to make my blog a business, and I have the tools to get me there. This would have taken me three years to do on my own.

DANIELLE RYE

Live Well Bake Often

I was exhausted with feeling like I had to do a million different things to get "better" numbers.

I didn't want to work myself to death trying to grow my blog. I needed a better system, so I could enjoy life more...and I'm happy to say I'm doing that now! My blog has grown so much since Blog Smarter and my readers are so much more engaged. Some readers actually e-mail me on a regular basis now. This literally never happened before Blog Smarter.

My page views and email subscribers have both tripled in just a few months, and I'm finally making a full-time income, so that's a wonderful feeling!

RACHEL NORMAN

A Mother Far From Home

I was worried this would be just another "10 Tips to Get More Readers" product.

I'd done so many free (and paid) smaller courses and was worried it'd be stock standard. I was completely wrong and truly surprised at how much material was covered I'd never thought of or done before.

Since the Blog Smarter program, my monthly product income has doubled, my overall income nearly doubled, and my email list grew by 50%. Not because of "grow quickly" tips, but because I've now positioned my business to grow exponentially without having to babysit it 24 hours a day.

ABRAHAM LINCOLN SAID
“If I had a nine hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first six sharpening my ax.”

Darlin’, here’s your ax.
Let’s get to work.

Join Us

Join the Waiting List!

The Blog Smarter program only opens twice each year, and once seats are gone, they're gone. Grab your spot and step up as the CEO of your blog and business.

[thrive_2step id='458']Join the Waiting List![/thrive_2step]

Class begins on Monday, October 29th

BASIC
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Work on your business alongside a group of hardworking, dedicated bloggers (read: no slackers allowed) in a world-class training program.

Over 9 hours of graduate-level marketing instruction
Work on your own time, but with structure + support over 18 weeks to keep you moving forward
Smart systems + templates to build your business
Brand-Building Assignments for clarity, insight, and mega brand power
Lifetime access, so you can apply the Blog Smarter framework in your business again and again
One-to-one mentoring from successful Blog Smarter veterans
4 months access to our private forum of supportive, goal-driven bloggers like you

~~Access to all recorded mastermind calls on our learning site (value: $297)~~
~~[Copywriting Seminar] Copypicking: My #1 Technique for Pre-Writing Sales Copy That Hooks (and Sells) (value: $197)~~
~~GRADUATION BONUS! 2-hour live group coaching/Q&A session on product creation, sales, copywriting, and scaling your business (value: $795)~~

Special Early Bird Price (US$) valid for first 24 hours

One Time Investment $487

3 x Monthly Payment Plan $195/mo

—

COMING IN OCTOBER

Join the waiting list above to get the first word.

PREMIUM
MENTORSHIP PROGRAM

Work on your business alongside a group of hardworking, dedicated bloggers in a world-class training program. PLUS get premium business-track resources for upleveling your copywriting + sales.

Over 9 hours of graduate-level marketing instruction
Work on your own time, but with structure + support over 18 weeks to keep you moving forward
Smart systems + templates to build your business
Brand-Building Assignments for clarity, insight, and mega brand power
Lifetime access, so you can apply the Blog Smarter framework in your business again and again
One-to-one mentoring from successful Blog Smarter veterans
4 months access to our private forum of supportive, goal-driven bloggers like you
Access to all recorded mastermind calls on our learning site (value: $297)
[Copywriting Seminar] Copypicking: My #1 Technique for Pre-Writing Sales Copy That Hooks (and Sells) (value: $197)
GRADUATION BONUS! 2-hour live group coaching/Q&A session on product creation, sales, copywriting, and scaling your business (value: $795)

One Time Investment $497

3 x Monthly Payment Plan $197/mo

—

COMING IN OCTOBER

Join the waiting list above to get the first word.

What Happens Next?

The Blog Smarter™ Program starts on October 29th and runs for 4 months.

Once you click the button above, you’ll be taken to a checkout page on the Blog Smarter learning site. At the bottom, you’ll find the checkout button. After your registration is complete, you’ll be sent an email receipt and will be redirected back to our Learning Site, where you’ll set up your username and password to access the course learning modules. You’ll get instant access to a Welcome email series (it’s waiting for you right now!), along with instructions for one simple task each day this week that will get you ready for the class kickoff.

If you’re ready to change the life of your blog, then now is your time. I’ll see you on the inside.

Cheers,

Jeni

Some A’s to your Q’s...

Is this program right for me?

This program is the gateway drug for going from blah-blah-blogger to Smart CEO. A few types of bloggers won't be a good fit for this program: Don't join if you’re a news, political, or entertainment blogger…or if you’re a grandma blogger, meaning your blog is mostly photos of your kids, so you have something to show grandma. It’s also not for novel or fiction writers. Unfortunately, there’s no solid business model for growing and profiting from those types of blogs (for various reasons) and I only want your rear in my program if I can help get you results.

We've worked with fashion bloggers. Food bloggers. Travel/business/mom bloggers. But regardless of what you write about, students who get the best results are hardworking bloggers ready to ditch the rat race and step up to being an entrepreneur. And I'll light your path every step of the way.

I’m starting a new blog.
Is Blog Smarter for me?

Nope. Don't join if you’re a brand spankin’ new blogger. Or if you don’t have a blog yet. This is graduate-level marketing strategy, and research is part of it…which means you need something to research. Get five months under your belt, then get back to me. It’ll be worth the wait.

I already have a successful business, and I already sell my own product(s). How will Blog Smarter help me?

Ever wish someone would just tell you what to do so you wouldn't be pulled in so many directions? Or that you're ready to take your business to the next level, but you're not sure exactly which steps will get you there?

It turns out, Blog Smarter grads who already had their own products have had some of the biggest "aha" moments and the fuel to quickly multiply their existing income. (See Rachel N's + Leslie R's words on this page.) That's because the best business is done by strong brands. And by the end of this program, you'll have clarity, focus, and your brand will be rock solid.

How much time is required?

This is like going back to grad school - it's professional content, delivered at a professional level. On average, students spend 4-10 hours per week on research, planning, and executing the business-building strategy in the program. Videos are in bite-sized chunks (most are around 20 minutes), and there's absolutely no busywork -- so even if you spend more time, you know it's time well spent. Most students stop writing blog posts altogether during the program in order to focus on getting maximum results for their business. That frees up plenty of time to devote to working through the Blog Smarter system.

I need a payment plan.
Help a sister out?

Absolutely. Right now we offer a few payment plans (just select that option above), or you can save by paying all at once. We don't want this program to put a financial strain on families, so if you have to sell your soul to your mother-in-law to borrow the money from her, now isn't your time. This program only opens a few times a year, so save for it.

I'm worried I won't have time. Should I still join?

Absolutely not. Just like you wouldn't sign up for a college course thinking, I wonder if I'll have time to do this? - you shouldn't join this intensive business program unless you're ready to commit. This program is for dedicated, hardworking bloggers ready to do what it takes over the next 12 weeks to systematically build your brand + business.

I'm taking a vacation during the program. Will I be able to catch up?

I've got your back. Week #6 in the program is "implementation week" (read: no new lessons/assignments). You'll have that week to breathe, catch up if you need to, and put one foot in front of the other without worrying about falling behind. However, if you're in the Intensive Mastermind Program, we advise taking no more than one week away during the program so you can stay on track. Of course, lifetime access means the training materials are yours forever. So you can revisit the program whenever you like.

Blog Smarter grads are saying...

LESLIE RUTLAND

The Seasoned Homemaker

I was already a “successful” blogger...but I didn’t know what I was missing.

In many ways, I felt like this program was almost written exclusively for me at this stage of my blogging life. There were some things I had already tackled, but I didn't go the whole way and so there was a deficiency. It was like I was in a dimly lit room and knew my way around but I couldn't see things clearly. Blog Smarter has basically illuminated the entire room for me. This has truly been the most valuable blogging course I’ve taken.

CHARLEE FLAMINIO

Humble in a Heartbeat

I just didn't have a lot of time on my hands. I was barely posting every few months at the time, so I wasn't sure how I'd get through the program at a reasonable pace.

I do believe I would have quit blogging if I hadn't joined Blog Smarter. I was in a blogging "funk" and had no idea what I should write about anymore. My topics were fairly broad and only somewhat related, and I didn't have a specific niche that I was writing for. And so during the program, I completely stopped posting. I wanted to focus on the system and build my blog from the ground up before getting back into writing.

And I’m so glad I have guidance with not just writing posts, but also sending emails to my subscribers now! I used to send out a newsletter once a week. It was often just whatever-was-on-my-mind and didn't add value. I used to put a ton of links and notice that very few people would click. I've sent a couple emails since finishing the program, and I'm getting at least 10x as many clicks! I love that the program covers emailing subscribers because I would still be lost if it didn't.

The Blog Smarter program helped me realize that posting 2-3 times a week was truly hurting my business. Over the last year I was constantly worrying about the fact that I wasn't posting very often. But once I went through the program, I realized that spending more time creating quality content will take me a whole lot farther.

I’d wholeheartedly recommend this program to other bloggers. Blog Smarter completely revolutionized how I think about my blog and where I spend my time each day.

I feel like I owe you something, Jeni. Like more than the money I paid for this course. It just boggles my mind that one course, for as much as or less than most blogging courses, can give me all the tools I'll need to build a strong brand. It's a fun course, and so worth the time and money. Thank you for all the hard work you've put into it!

Hope you're enjoying summer with your kids!

MONICA LYNN

Enjoy the Learning Journey

This was an incredible amount of money for me to pay when I wasn’t making any money from my blog

I’ve spent a lot of money on courses and other learning materials for my blog and most of them hadn’t paid off or wasn’t what I was expecting. But Blog Smarter was the best online class I’ve ever taken. It was well-organized, focused, and provided me with a lot of valuable information. I could also tell that you were fully committed to us (your students) and helping us learn and take ownership of our role as CEO during the course of the program. I learned a lot about branding and how to think like a CEO.

I’ve had a huge mindset shift and while I’m still working through a lot of things and making decisions, I can now see why a blog is not a business. I’ve heard those words before but now I can see the big picture and how my decisions need to be looked at through the eyes of a business owner, not a blogger. I now see all the products and groups and whatever else that is being sold and promoted to bloggers right now for what it is — a distraction. Unless it’s something I really and truly need for my business — that I am seeking out — I am not even paying attention.

This is the perfect course for those people who want to run a business, not just have a blog. And who are fully committed to serving their audience.

SIM CAMPBELL

Unstoppable Rise

I’ve seen lots of things marketed as “silver bullets,” and I’ve never bought in.

I had never done an online course, so didn't really know what I'd get out of this, or if this would even work out for me. But once the program started, I found out very quickly that this was well worth the price of admission. You were able to pack in business strategy, marketing, sales, and more within this course. Paying this much for everything with direct access to you and other great bloggers was like highway robbery. This certainly paid for itself many, many times over.

JEN GRICE

Surviving & Thriving After Divorce

I just want to thank you again for all your help with my website (making it so much better) — and now, my thriving business.

I self-published my first book last June – over 6% of my list purchased during my beta launch — and now it's selling very well. I've been getting more and more coaching clients over the last six months, too.

Several big divorce websites have contacted me to write for them and submit my posts to reblog on their sites. Then the other day iBelieve.com reblogged one of my articles... and "the machine" is working! :) Hundreds of new subscribers this week when I've usually been getting about 100 - 150 each month.

Lastly, I'm launching my first digital product next week, and I already have ladies emailing me asking for it now. Plus several of other daily emails asking for help.

I believe my path to growing my business is (and hopefully always will be)... slow and steady. We'll see how next week goes. And next month when I start freelancing for iBelieve.com too.

Again, thank you, Jeni! I will always attribute the biggest reason I was able to start down this path towards being fully supported by my "blog business" was because of YOUR course! I know I would not have the website I have now if it weren't for you!

May God bless you, your family, and your business as much as you've blessed mine.

KALEE LUNDMARK

The Crowded Tabe

I loved being a food blogger, but had gotten nowhere in the 2 years I had my blog.

I knew I couldn't devote full time hours to my blog, but that seemed the only way to make money blogging. Blog Smarter was my last ditch, all-in effort to either make my blog work for me and my family, or walk away from it.

I learned to look at my blog in a new way, as a business, not a hobby. I learned how to focus on building a strong brand that can set my blog apart from others was big for me. Also, learning I didn't have to devote endless hours every week to be successful was encouraging — Knowing I could sell products, offer consulting services, or become an affiliate was huge! And just learning to look at everything related to my blog through the eyes of a CEO has changed the way I approach every decision related to my blog.

I now have a focus and a group of people I’m helping. Having that focus and knowing exactly what my business is working to accomplish is much more fulfilling. And I’m seeing results! People are sticking around on my website longer, joining my list and actually reading the emails. That’s a big change for me!

NANCY BANDZUCH

Do Small Things With Love

Before this I had invested in several "blogging courses" and I learned something from each one. But after the very first module I learned MORE from this program.

I feel like my brain has been rewired. I loved the groups and the calls, but your videos were so packed with real content about not only how blogs work--but how businesses work.

You did such an excellent job laying out everything and showing me the truth—so when it came time to take big action (delete 400 posts, narrow focus, create email campaigns), I was all in and I felt like I knew exactly how to do everything.

Five weeks after graduating, I had earned more than my husband, who is a very well compensated executive at a big company. Yup, I made more than him–without paying for 1 hour of daycare (I have 4 kids, all under 5). This is the only course I will recommend for my blogging friends, and after taking it, I doubt I will ever take another course from anyone else.

JENNIFER ROE

Simple Hacks Living

It was a big risk for me to spend money on this course

…because I needed something that was truly going to help me long term. I honestly felt like I got my money's worth after the first two weeks. I am leaving this course encouraged and empowered. You gave me the tools to build a solid foundation for my blog, so that it can not only grow but prosper. This has been an amazing experience. It was everything I was looking for and more.

BLAIR LONERGAN

The Seasoned Mom

I was worried that I would need to make drastic changes that I wouldn't be comfortable with.

After Blog Smarter, I’ve started down the path of major changes for my brand and my site, but instead of feeling trepidation I'm feeling optimistic and excited. This is a refreshing new approach to blogging and running a business that doesn’t make me feel like I have to do it all and be everywhere in order to succeed. It has empowered me to truly think and act like a CEO!

KRISTEN SMITH

A Better Way to Thrive

I was at a standstill with my blog. I knew that what I was doing wasn't working the way I had hoped.

I wanted to take it from a blog that was struggling to get by and turn it into a profitable business that wouldn't suck the life out of me. I constantly felt like a clueless novice who was watching what everyone else was doing and wondering if I needed to try that, too.

But now? I'm just really, really thankful. I knew this was going to be a wise investment, but I've told my hubby repeatedly that this was the best money I've ever spent, outside of our $500 copay/midwife fee for having our babies (ha!). Now I can put my CEO hat on when I need to make a decision. I don't feel obligated or even tempted to do what others are doing because I know that I need to focus my energy on what best serves my market. I feel like I can dream big now because for the first time, I'm getting tons of positive feedback from my readers. I know exactly what they need. And that is thrilling!

KELLY ROENICKE

The Pretty Bee

Money was my biggest concern - I had never taken a blogging course before, because they all looked lame - but this was a fair amount of money for me to spend.

However, within the first week, I could see that this was money very well spent. Blog Smarter completely changed the way I view my business. The mindset shift is priceless. This program is life changing.

ANA DZIENGEL

Babble Dabble Do

I’ve listened to a gazillion blog/business podcasts but was skeptical - I didn’t trust them because they only sell “money making” products.

Your podcast on Food Blogger Pro spoke to me in a totally different and refreshing way, though, so I decided to dive in.

This course has been major mindshift for me. I seriously feel so "free" after taking the course. Free to spend the time I want to creating good content and free to work on products and let the blog coast more while I do it. THANK YOU!!!!

NORA RUSEV

Savoury Nothings

I was absolutely terrified I would waste another $1K.

I had already spent $1000 on another blogging course in 2016, and it was an awful experience. There was absolutely no intentionality behind it, and the gist of it was basically "do Pinterest, use my funnel eMail templates and see the money rolling in." It did nothing for my business, so naturally I figured all blogging courses are just a scam, ha! But a friend who had taken your program convinced me that Blog Smarter is different.

Business-wise I have learned more during Blog Smarter than I have learned during my entire blogging career. I can't even put it into words - it's like an awakening. I never really knew what I wanted to DO with my blog, but now I have found my calling. I know exactly what business I need to build to change lives. And on a personal note, my 2 year old daughter Mila is so much more balanced and happier now. It's just... unbelievable what you have done for our family. Blog Smarter was truly a life-changing experience.

PAM BARNHILL

Homeschool Solutions

My main concern was that I would know so much of it already that it would be a waste of money.

I have consulted with Jeni numerous times. I have a pretty good business with a consistent income. I already consider myself an entrepreneur instead of a blogger. Was there anything new in it for me?

There were a couple of parts that were worth the price of the program alone. Really good stuff. Specifically, brand promise, on-site branding, bribe to subscribe, and differentiating content. I have always aligned my lead magnets with my products but the bribe to subscribe section was awesome. Because I have so much Blog Smarter-type structure in place already, I will just be making tweaks because of what I learned in the program, but those tweaks are going to have a huge impact.

No matter what level of blogging or business I think there is something to be learned from the program. And once a year, you can go back through the program to keep improving.

WENDI SPRAKER

Loaves and Dishes

Other than my DSLR camera/lens and travel for the International Food Blogger Conference, this is the most expensive thing I’ve bought for my blog. I was worried about the cost vs. value.

I’ve always thought of my blog as a business - and I have run several successful businesses (in my day to day life) - but I just didn't understand how to take my blog to the next level. I have the basis for that understanding now.

This course was PACKED with usable content. I liked that Jeni didn't waste my time with mambi pambi exercises that didn't take me anywhere. Blog Smarter is on par with any college course I have ever taken - and that is a lot of courses right there!

DENA NORTON

Back to the Book Nutrition

Since I already had a coaching business, I wondered: Would this be applicable to my situation?

What I found was VERY clear instructions that took me down the foundations of my brand identity and messaging, and walked me through how to market more effectively. I’m grateful for the timely perspective this course gave me just as I was switching gears from primarily a blogger to incorporating holistic nutrition coaching into my business model. Of course, I wish I had done a lot of this stuff from the beginning, but I'm so thankful for how it's helping me now!

JENN BONICELLI

Two Came True

We had no idea what we were doing. We started our blog with some ideas, but we were lost on to make it a business.

I gained an entirely different perspective on how to approach blogging so that it is a business and not a hobby! Honestly, I learned so much. It is knowledge I would have never gained by scouring the internet. I couldn't not be more happy with the content of this program.

TONIA LYONS

Happy Homeschool Nest

I wondered if the price would be worth the investment. I've taken a few different courses before that didn't really teach me anything I didn't already know.

What I got was a completely different outlook on blogging - so different than what the rest of the blog world recommends. Instead of depending on someone else to tell me how things should be done, I'm now learning to apply the lessons to my own website and business. Your program is just what burned-out bloggers need.

RACHEL BALLARD

Feast and Farm

I was worried about spending money when my blog doesn’t make very much.

…but now my subscriber list is up 15x over what it was before Blog Smarter and soaring every month. I have real, solid, concrete steps to success now. I know what to do and how to do it. I'm not getting these "theoretical" ideas or concepts to try, but proven, research methods. I go back to my notes often to refresh my plan and stay on task.

CHERI GREGORY

cherigregory.com

I didn’t have time for this. But I also didn't have time to waste doing things wrong...I'd done that long enough.

Both times I’ve been through Blog Smarter (twice now!), I narrowed my audience. The first time, I narrowed it to who I'd been wanting it to be all along but was afraid to stake my claim. The second time, I discovered my niche totally by accident and am THRILLED by who is (and who isn't) in it! It fits me to a "T" but I would never have figured it out on my own.

I tell everyone that it is, hands down, the BEST course I have ever taken on any topic in any setting. Jeni is a brilliant instructor. The step-by-step process is exactly what I needed. The pacing was perfect for helping me change my thinking a little at a time. The coaching was spot-on. The interaction with peers was so practical. Watching/Hearing others being coached was as helpful as, if not more helpful than, being coached personally.

I now see my blogging as a business and me as the CEO. And second, I’ve quit wasting time and money on all the "experts" and "gurus" out there and am making wise choices for my own business.

Blog Smarter has answered pretty much every question I hadn't known to ask, explained every failure I'd been experiencing, and quite literally taught me to "blog smarter" rather than keep pouring my time, energy, and money into false hopes. I'll take Blog Smarter a 3rd time the moment the opportunity arises, no matter how busy I happen to be!

SARA DENNIS

Classically Homeschooling

I've enrolled in other programs and not seen the results. I was worried this would be just another blogging course.

I've seen other courses say each assignment was necessary, but many felt like busy work. But as I worked through Blog Smarter, I could see how each piece came together. I needed the previous assignments to complete the later assignments! And the branding was amazing!

Now I feel more confident and focused. I can see how the blog falls into a business. Blog Smarter has made a huge difference in how and what I blog about.

What convinced me to enroll was that several bloggers I admire loved your course and/or consulting with you. They were right.

CAJUN MCJILTON

Blooming in Bedlam

Asking my husband to pay for this was a big deal.

I left a great job that I loved to stay home with my 16 month old son, so for the first time since I was 15, I'm not making money I can spend how I like. But Blog Smarter has brought so much clarity and freedom to my business, It was 100% worth it...and more.

The studies, psychology and examples were gold -- the program is full of tangible ways showing the impact you can have. I feel like I'm in control of my blog again. I don't have to listen to all that other advice floating around out there because I have a plan. There are so many practical examples and ways to help you implement these practices. And the support is unbeatable. You will not be alone on this journey.

HILARY BERNSTEIN

No Place Like Home

I thought I was a pro blogger, but now I realize I've spent the past 5 years acting like a hobby blogger.

...but in Blog Smarter, I became a business owner and CEO. I now know how to target my readers and cut out all the fluff that only created extra work. I'm watching my pageviews and e-mail subscribers grow, and I'm launching my first eCourse to help my readers in just a few weeks! I can hardly wait to start working on more projects like this.

But I'll warn you: try to forget everything you already know and have been taught about blogging. Start the program with an open mind and do every single thing Jeni says ... then prepare yourself for the results!

NATALIE HOFFMAN

Flying Free

I wondered...would this be worth the time and money investment?

I had been blogging for 9 years and frankly, I didn’t know what I was doing. I wanted to help people, but beyond that I didn’t have a focused plan.

Blog Smarter gave me a huge paradigm shift as far as the big picture of why I was doing what I was doing. I made real progress and change simply by following the small, bite sized assignments. Every single lesson was RELEVANT and I learned things I haven't learned anywhere else. It was DOABLE with immediate, measurable results.

I now have ongoing direction in my business — plus I'm getting a higher opt in rate on my subscription box! Blog Smarter delivers what it promises.

HEATHER PERINE

Boston Girl Bakes

I was just at my wit's end with my blog but still so hopeful and ambitious.

I used to be so anxious and all over the place. That whole "throwing spaghetti at the wall"— yup that was me. I was spending every single second working on it and seeing just zero results. And wondering what I am doing wrong, and why are other blogs crushing it?

Since the program, I have a much better mindset. I’ve stepped away from hours spent on facebook groups. I’m spending my time more wisely. I’m looking towards the future of a possible first product and knowing exactly what direction to take my blog in. Being able to just go back through the program and now have that 20/20 vision on my blog/brand has been just the best thing ever. I feel much more confident about my blog and my brand that I'm presenting to my readers.

...and I just wanted to add that I had company contact me about wanting to do a paid sponsored post. I made sure that it would all fit my brand ;) like you taught me and that it is worth my time...this is the 1st time I've had a company contact ME out of the blue like this. I've done some sponsored posts in the past through applying for them, so this is a MAJOR first for me. Thanks, Jeni!

CARRIE DILS

OfficeHours.fm Podcast

I’d been struggling with narrowing my target market and finding the right messaging for them.

The course hit me in the right spot at the right time, and it really was wonderful. You’re a brilliant teacher and a knowledge boss in this space. I mentioned this to you earlier in the course, but it’s worth more than what you’re charging. Especially given the level of personal interaction from you and your team (that was both unexpected and delightful).

JUSTYNA ZAWADZKA

Very Breakfast

I was anxious the program wouldn't be as helpful as I wanted and needed it to be.

...but it was that and much more. :) My ideas about blogging and creating a business online were really incorrect and because of that, it was almost impossible for me to move forward.

This program is an incredible foundation that every blog should be built on. Since I understand the process, it's easier to make decisions about my blog and direction now. I would say Blog Smarter program is the ultimate guide book every blogger should have.

AMY MILCIC

Rock Your Homeschool

Would I have the courage to truly listen & make changes to my blog?

I wondered before I started Blog Smarter...Could I shift my mindset? Although I've only been blogging about two years, I knew that I had picked up a lot of advice from "experts" & it would be hard to shake that off. You know, all the "shoulds" and "supposed to"s.

Blog Smarter has challenged me to look at my talents and what I have to offer in a completely different way. I don't have to focus primarily on my blog but use other platforms like coaching/consulting or products that better fit my personality. I'm diving into who I am, what I have to offer, and what my readers truly need from me. I'm also learning to ditch what's not working—why keep doing it just b/c I'm “supposed to?” :) My confidence has tremendously gone up because I feel like I'm standing on firmer ground.

KENDRA PARKS

Tiny Tummy Tales

I wondered if I’d have enough time for this to be worth it.

Previously, I had taken a FB course I never finished due to the amount of time required to dedicate to making it work. But I’d had no insights to focus my business, so I decided to join Blog Smarter and try.

This course has changed the way I see my business and has really taken me from not knowing if I could continue on with my ideas due to the amount of time and energy required to 'do everything' well enough, to a place of confidence and peace. I know where i'm going and i'm not wasting time being distracted by every Facebook ad shouting at me to get more more more social media followers!

Thank you Jeni! Thank you for sharing this program with me. Thank you for helping me to see where I should be focusing my time and energy and for allowing me to get back to being a mom who can happily be present with my children. We are loving this summer and even though i'm not spending as much time on my business, it’s growing. You've given me knowledge and tools that are invaluable.

Thanks a lot from me and my 4 little boys (and hubby) :) The program was worth every penny and I say that because I feel it and mean it.

VENETA SAKALIYSKA

Edgy Cuts

I was worried I was going to spend money on nothing. I've gone through courses before and they added zero value to me. Nothing I haven't already known.

Blog Smarter is different. It’s based on fundamental marketing principles I know from my grad studies, but the best of all is that it is so well structured and guides you from concept to practice effortlessly. And not just any practice, but blogging in specific.

I am now FREE! I'm no longer stressed about the numbers and I don't care about whether I must post something or not. The program gave me the guts to set myself free of pressure and free of guilt to say NO to those sleazy PR offers. LIBERATING :}

SARA JORDAN PANNING

The Homeschool Post

I was unsure of the direction to take, where to focus next, what to do with both of my blogs, and ready to give up...

I've been blogging since 2008 and I was definitely on that hamster wheel, chasing page views and social media shares. I knew I needed to change and I had pieces of the puzzle to make changes, but this course put them all together for me.

I went from being unsure of the direction to take, where to focus next, what to do with both of my blogs, and being ready to give up, to having total clarity on my business plan. I have lots to implement, but for the first time I ACTUALLY KNOW what I'm going to do and how. That feels like such a relief!

After this course I started focusing more on nurturing the people I already have and the response is amazing. I'm getting emails from my readers now and my page views have gone up 4x on one of my blogs and 2x on the other one even though I'm blogging less! I never would've believed it! (My traffic did drop off at first and I felt a little panicky, but it has more than picked up now.) Some of the emails I've gotten from my readers bring tears to my eyes. I feel so good about helping and encouraging people. Because of this course, I have connected with my peeps and they are responding!

Oh, and that time that I would've spent on blog posts, I have been spending on building an ecourse and lead magnets that I know my readers will love. I've barely scratched the surface of implementing everything, but I can see the potential and it's so exciting.

It's amazing how my entire mindset about blogging/life has changed since I started the course. That sounds dramatic, but your course was just what I needed.

KRISTINE ROSENBLATT

Kristine's Kitchen

I went back and forth in my mind for YEARS before this course trying to decide what my "niche" should be.

I found the first few weeks of coursework, which focused on developing your brand, figuring out your target market, etc. to be so valuable. I really needed the specific guidance of this course to help me figure out where I wanted to go with my business and who I wanted to serve.

I'm now getting more emails from readers (I used to get basically none), which I love! These reader emails also give me really useful information about what kind of content and resources my readers need, which helps me to plan my posts and products.

You’ve laid everything out step by step to help bloggers build the foundation for a strong business. There was no busywork; each module and assignment was valuable. Now I feel confident (and relieved!) to finally have a clear focus and direction with my blog.