The Gorgeous Effect
Welcome to The Gorgeous Effect, the go-to podcast for marketers, entrepreneurs, and creatives looking for the “oomph” factor in their marketing that’s missing. Hosted by Julie Chenell and Cathy Olson, the powerhouse duo behind Funnel Gorgeous and FG Funnels, this show is your secret source for marketing strategies that just work…without you having to sacrifice quality or your brand. In each episode, Julie and Cathy pull back the curtain on their formula for creating visually stunning funnels that don't just look good—they convert like crazy. With real life examples and no-nonsense advice, they'll guide you through the do's and d...
Are Middle-Priced Offers Over?
In this episode, Julie and Cathy dive into one of the hottest debates in the online business space: Are mid-tier courses and offers truly “dead”? In this episode, they tackle the rumor head-on, separating fact from fiction about whether only ultra-low or high-ticket offers can thrive in today’s market. Drawing on real-world experience and industry insights, Julie and Cathy unpack why some marketers are still seeing huge wins with $500–$900 products, and what it actually takes for offers at any price point to succeed. Listen in for their candid discussion about transformational results, evolving customer expectations, and how AI is reshapin...
The Truth Behind Million Dollar Grit Book
In this episode, Julie takes the hot seat as co-host Cathy turns interviewer, diving deep into the story behind Julie’s brand new book, "Million Dollar Grit." Tune in to hear the unfiltered journey of how the idea for the book finally crystallized, what it was like to wrestle through drafts and vulnerable moments, and why some of the toughest stories didn’t make the final cut. Julie and Cathy unpack the balance between memoir and business advice, reflect on lessons that still matter years later, and get real about what kind of reader might struggle with the truths in thes...
Surviving the Digital Civil War
In this episode, Julie and Cathy peel back the layers on a hot topic: is there any middle ground left in today’s world... especially in business? From navigating the increasingly tangled landscape where business, politics, religion, and personal beliefs collide, to sharing their own perspectives as founders of Funnel Gorgeous and FG Funnels, Julie and Cathy dive deep into why things seem more polarized than ever. They explore the pressures business owners face to take a stand (or stay silent), how social media algorithms fuel division, and what it really means for your brand, your voice, and your values. Wh...
Practical Ways to Slash Business Costs
Today we are ready to tackle a tough but essential topic for business owners... how to protect your profits when you suddenly need to slash expenses. In this episode, Julie and Cathy get candid about the real challenges of trimming costs when your business is feeling the squeeze, especially if you scaled up during the recent boom and now need to scale back. They'll guide you through practical steps to review your subscriptions, reconsider outsourcing for things like podcast editing and social media, and make intentional decisions about travel and marketing expenses. Plus, they dive into how to prioritize which...
The Truth Behind All These SaaS Price Hikes
In this episode, hosts Julie and Cathy dive deep into the recent wave of price hikes sweeping through popular software companies like Kajabi, Kit (Convertkit), and Samcart. They peel back the curtains on why these companies are changing their pricing models... not just for new users, but hitting existing customers too. Julie and Cathy break down the impact this has on business owners, share insider perspectives from their own journey with FG Funnels, and discuss how to protect your bottom line as a digital entrepreneur. Tune in for a candid conversation about pricing strategies, industry trends, and how to choose...
Dropping Opt-In Rates! What We Can Do
In this episode, Julie and Cathy dive into a surprising trend that’s impacting marketers everywhere: plummeting opt-in rates. They break down why getting people to hand over their email addresses has become harder than ever, even for the best in the business. From the psychology behind scarcity of attention, to the importance of value-driven offers and compelling visuals, they spill the tea on what’s no longer working, and what you can do to turn things around. Whether you’re seeing opt-in rates drop or just want to stay ahead of the marketing curve, this candid conversation is packed with r...
Guardrails, Delusions, and the Future of Business
In this episode, we delve into one of the hottest (and most important) topic in business today: AI safety. With the rise of AI tools, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of what it can do for your marketing funnels and business, but we need to be just as mindful of the risks. Instead of worrying about robot uprisings, we peel back the layers on how AI can subtly impact our understanding of reality, shape our beliefs, and even nudge us towards echo chambers and misinformation. So far, AI doesn’t have an agenda of its own...
Internet Marketing’s Craziest Launches Right Now ☕☕☕
Today we are spilling the (Internet marketing) tea on some of the biggest moves and drama shaking up the digital marketing world right now. From analyzing Alex Hormozi’s headline-grabbing, record-breaking book launch... and all the opinions (and controversy) it stirred up, to unpacking Russell Brunson’s new Offer Lab and his candid reflections on community and competition, Julie and Cathy dig into what it’s really like watching the industry landscape shift in real time. Expect hot takes on evolving launch strategies, platform wars, and what it means to build with integrity in a world that wants bigger, louder, and so...
Q4 Game Plan: Beating Biz Burnout
We kick off a brand new season by diving into the realities of summer slowdowns and the unique challenges entrepreneurs face during those quieter months. Julie and Cathy get real about the "summer sludge"... that sluggish feeling and dip in sales that can make you question everything, even when you know it happens every year. But don’t panic: they’re here to help you shed that lingering uncertainty and gear up for a stellar Q4. From personal anecdotes about combating seasonal anxiety to tried-and-true strategies for planning profitable promotions, Julie and Cathy share actionable tips for making the most of f...
Would You Rather: Funnel Edition
Welcome back to The Gorgeous Effect! In this season finale, hosts Julie and Cathy shake things up with a special “Would You Rather: Funnel Edition” episode. Get ready for laughs, surprises, and some real talk as they challenge each other with fun, revealing questions about marketing, copywriting, design, and the challenges of building high-converting funnels. You'll discover Julie and Cathy’s unique takes on everything from audience size and product pricing to their favorite fonts... and even what happens when things go hilariously wrong on a webinar. Plus, they share a behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming up for Funnel Gorgeous...
Why Rich Relationships Matter in Business
Julie and Cathy dive deep into the power of “rich relationships” in the online business world, inspired by Selena Soo’s new book, Rich Relationships: Create a Million Dollar Network for Your Business. The conversation goes behind the scenes at Funnel Gorgeous and FG Funnels, revealing how genuine connections, not just tactical funnels and flashy offers, have fueled their business growth over the years. Julie and Cathy get real about the value of showing up for in-person and online events, the unexpected ROI of investing in a “rich relationships” budget, and how fostering vibrant communities like FG Society unlocks collaboration and busine...
The Untold Truths of Selling Live
In this episode, hosts Julie Chenell and Cathy Olson pull back the curtain on the rollercoaster world of launching live webinars. Fresh off an intense season working with Launch Gorgeous students, they break down the challenges and triumphs. Julie and Cathy share behind-the-scenes stories, including candid lessons from private clients whose webinars didn’t sell live…but scored big on the replay. They dig into the often-overlooked skill of selling live, why sticking to a trusted process matters, and how tracking your results week after week can make all the difference. Whether you’re a webinar newbie or launching pro, this e...
Practical Tips to Improve Your Teaching Style
In this episode, Julie Chenell and Cathy Olson dive deep into the art of teaching, sharing, and communicating in ways that truly stick. Together, they unpack what it takes to deliver lessons people not only understand, but actually remember and use... whether you're teaching funnels, design, or anything in between. Julie geeks out on the science behind those powerful “aha” moments, explaining how a simple neurochemical rush can turn an ordinary explanation into something unforgettable. Cathy adds her unique perspective as a visual thinker, highlighting how visuals and systems help learners connect the dots, even when the material gets complex. You...
Flashy Lifestyles vs. Real Results: Finding Mentors
In this episode, Julie and Cathy dive into the fascinating world of mentors, coaches, and the impact their lifestyles have on our decisions to learn from them. Have you ever wondered whether to trust a business coach based on their glamorous social media posts... or perhaps their lack thereof? Julie and Cathy pull back the curtain on the sometimes-murky relationship between authenticity, aspirational branding, and what really drives someone to hit “follow” (or “unfollow”). Should we judge an expert by their lifestyle, or by their expertise? Plus, they explore how our values, priorities, and even our own struggles play into who we t...
Structuring Payment Plans for More Sales
Today Julie and Cathy are diving deep into the ins and outs of payment plans...the underrated heroes (and sometimes villains) of digital marketing. If you’ve ever wondered whether payment plans help or hurt your business, how to structure them to maximize conversions, or what happens when customers miss payments, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable insights. Julie and Cathy break down everything from premium upcharges, the math behind choosing your plan length, industry standards, and how new economic realities are changing how we sell online. Plus, they share their own experiences (warts and all) with of...
Building Authority Without Forcing It
Today we are diving into a solo deep-dive with your co-host, Cathy Olson. Get ready to unleash your inner thought leader as Cathy takes you on a journey of transforming everyday rants into powerful content gold for your business. In a world where the online space is noisier than ever, Cathy shares her unique process for cutting through the clutter and capturing genuine attention. From capturing those fiery moments of insight to shaping them into impactful content, Cathy gives us the tools to be seen, trusted, and, ultimately, to convert followers into loyal customers. This episode, we’re all about em...
Smart People’s Guide to Selling
In this episode, titled "Why Smart People Can't Sell Themselves," Julie and Cathy dive into the intriguing paradox of why being incredibly smart in your field doesn't necessarily translate to effective marketing. As experts who have seen it all with Funnel Gorgeous and FG Funnels, they explore the challenges that intelligent experts face in selling their expertise and the solutions to overcome these hurdles. Join us as they unravel the reasons why smart minds sometimes struggle to connect with their audience and how tweaking your marketing perspective can unlock success. Get ready to uncover the secrets behind making your expertise...
Why Brilliant Offers Fail: How to Beat the Odds
In this episode of "The Gorgeous Effect," hosts Julie Chenell and Cathy Olson dive into the world of marketing funnels and the often elusive art of crafting offers that truly sell. They explore the concept of "the offer that gets away", those seemingly brilliant ideas that fail to hit the mark with customers. Drawing from their experiences and insights, Julie and Cathy discuss the inherent uncertainty in knowing whether an offer will succeed, the importance of understanding your audience, and the pitfalls of information overload. They share strategies for validating and testing your offers, emphasizing the significance of tying your...
Accidental Genius: The 'Second Brain' Playbook
Julie and Cathy are back to share an accidental strategy that's shaking up the marketing world. It started with a simple Zoom presentation that offers free content followed by a low-cost replay, and the community response has been incredible. They unpack the buzz around their AI-focused Second Brain talk, inspired by Julie’s journey using chat-based tools to manage memory struggles. Hear how her intuitive, improvisational style led to unexpected success. If you want to create high-converting offers or explore AI’s potential, this episode is full of practical insights. Get inspired and join the conversation!
From Epic Fail to High-Conversion
In today's episode, Julie and Cathy dive into the highs and lows of their recent marketing adventure: a webinar funnel that started as an "epic fail" but turned into a valuable learning experience. Get ready for an engaging discussion about the importance of design and copy in marketing, especially when targeting cold audiences. You'll hear about their $2,000 a day ad spend journey, discovering the power of clear messaging over cleverness, and how they doubled their conversion rate from 12% to a whopping 33%. Plus, they're sharing a side-by-side comparison of the funnel design and copy changes that made all the difference. If...
Small Audience, Big Impact: Perfect Funnel for Success
Today join hosts Julie Chenell and Cathy Olson as they dive into the world of webinars when you're working with a small or non-existent audience. Don't let a small email list hold you back from doing impactful webinars... it's a time to practice, hone your skills, and generate high-leverage sales opportunities. Today we break down the benefits and strategies of running successful webinars with limited resources. Make the most of your webinars, no matter your audience size.Get involved with upcoming FG Funnels webinars and accelerators to elevate your game. Pour your favorite beverage, sit back, and let's get started!
AI Guilt: Double Standards & Integrity
Today Julie and Cathy dive into a compelling conversation around the double standard and stigma associated with AI. They explore the love-hate relationship many marketers have with AI, comparing it to societal views on Ozempic. The discussion delves into the ethical considerations of using AI in marketing, the importance of authenticity, and how AI can enhance human connection rather than replace it. With real examples from their work at Funnel Gorgeous, Julie and Cathy emphasize the empowering potential of AI to make businesses more human-focused, allowing more time for meaningful connections with customers. Tune in to discover how embracing AI...
Why Webinars Are Marketing's Undying Zombies
Today we discuss the timeless power of webinars in the world of marketing. Julie and Cathy explore why webinars, often perceived as outdated, are in fact the "zombies" of the marketing world—immortal, ever-evolving, and immensely effective. Join us as we discuss the misconceptions around webinars being "dead," the invaluable role they play in building trust and converting leads, and the strategic choreography behind creating high-converting webinars. Whether you're a seasoned webinar host or hesitant about embracing this strategy, Julie and Cathy offer insights and tips to help you unleash the power of webinars and elevate your business. So grab yo...
4 Secrets of An Offer They Can't Forget
In this exciting episode, your hosts Julie Chenell and Cathy Olson tackle the often-overlooked issue of forgettable offers and how to ensure your brand stands out in a crowded market. Delve deep into the essential components of creating offers that are not only visually stunning but also unforgettable and effective in converting cold traffic into loyal customers. Listen in as they share insights on the importance of branding, naming, and designing offers that resonate with your audience. Whether you're launching to warm or cold audiences, this episode will equip you with the tools and strategies to make a lasting impression...
The Cost of Shiny Business Models: Choosing Wisely
In today's episode, Julie and Cathy dive deep into decision-making in business. Drawing on the metaphor of an iceberg, they emphasize the importance of looking beyond the visible, shiny business models that catch your eye. They discuss the potential pitfalls of following business trends without understanding the complexities beneath the surface. They explore various business models, from low ticket mass volume to high ticket low volume, and the behind-the-scenes work each entails. This episode offers practical steps on how to assess if a business model aligns with your values, resources, and goals. Whether you're launching an offer or re-evaluating your...
Choose the RIGHT Funnel for Your Business Goals
Julie and Cathy are tackling the common dilemma of choosing the right funnel for your business. They discuss the importance of understanding your core, premium, and introductory offers to effectively decide on a funnel strategy. Whether you're a coach, consultant, service provider, or course creator, they've got insights on launching through pressure, webinar, and paid lead maker funnels. They'll guide you on building momentum, growing your audience, and what type of funnel best suits your business needs, from beginners to seasoned marketers. Perfect for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of funnel marketing.
Build Your Moat: Standing Out in the Noise
Today Julie and Cathy dive into the art of standing out in an increasingly noisy world. They explore how to rise above the chaos by discovering your unique moat—an essential protective edge that sets your business apart. From identifying competitive advantages to the power of hyper-personalization and niching down, Julie and Cathy share valuable insights for business owners looking to avoid obscurity. Get ready to uncover strategies to unleash your full potential and shine bright in the crowded marketplace.
Networking at Events: Balancing Connection and Energy
Join hosts Julie and Cathy as they dive into the world of networking and the powerful impact of attending events for your business. Julie, who admits she's not the best at getting out and mingling, teams up with Cathy to share their strategies for making the most out of conferences and events. From pre-show networking tips to maintaining connections post-event, they'll guide you through how to create meaningful relationships that can lead to future opportunities. Whether you're an introvert or extrovert, local or avid traveler, this episode is packed with insights on maximizing your networking potential. So grab your coffee...
Reinventing Lead Magnets: Swipe File Makeover
In today's episode, we dive deep into the world of swipe files—a beloved tool in the marketer's arsenal. Are these templates facing obsolescence due to AI advancements, or simply a saturation in the market? Julie and Cathy discuss the evolving landscape of swipe files and how, even amidst technological shifts, their basic appeal—saving time—remains steadfast. As we look ahead to 2025, we'll explore the intriguing blend of AI and strategy, learning how to keep these digital tools relevant, valuable, and more dynamic than ever. So grab your coffee, settle in, and let's uncover the secrets to maintaining the allure...
Challenging 'The Way It Is': Your 2025 Business Reset
In this episode, we’re challenging assumptions and exploring how they shape our business and personal lives. From embracing failure as a teacher to recognizing the right clients, Cathy and Julie reflect on personal insights and strategies to leave old assumptions behind. We’ll also share community thoughts and how these insights can redefine success in your business. So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let's navigate 2025 with confidence and clarity. It's time to rethink what's possible with The Gorgeous Effect.
Keeping Offers Alive Beyond Initial Launch Hype
Welcome back to Season 2! Today, we're tackling a critical challenge that many digital entrepreneurs face: what happens to your funnel ecosystem after the launch confetti settles? Join Julie and Cathy from Funnel Gorgeous as they pull back the curtain on Beyond Launch Week - where the real work of nurturing your offers begins. Drawing from their own experiences, they'll share candid insights on building consistent customer journeys that extend well past the initial launch hype. You'll discover practical strategies for increasing your offers' lifespan, avoiding post-launch neglect, and creating sustainable growth through thoughtful optimization and engagement sequences. With their signature...
Audience Building Without Going Viral
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the need to become a mini media company or puzzled by the seemingly elusive nature of virality, you’re not alone. In today's episode, we're tackling one of the most challenging yet crucial aspects of launching a new product—building your audience. While many entrepreneurs love creating amazing offers and designing funnels, audience growth often falls by the wayside. Join us as Julie and Cathy discuss the hurdles associated with audience building, share their personal frustrations, and examine the truth behind going viral on social media. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just star...
Ending the Year STRONG with Irresistible Offers
Copy & Paste Our Year-End Sales Strategy! We're gearing up for the end of 2024 and revealing our exact blueprint for end-of-year promotions. Whether you're feeling the holiday rush or the New Year's anticipation, Julie and Cathy share their proven playbook on why that sweet spot between Christmas and New Year's could be your perfect launch window. Swipe their best ideas - from enhancing existing offers with irresistible bonuses to conducting goodwill-led promotions that create a win/win for your business and your customers. All while balancing amazing deals with delighted customers. Tune in to grab your ready-to-use strategy and unleash the...
The Dark Side of Market Research: Envy or Inspiration?
Julie and Cathy are diving deep into a topic that isn't often discussed — the dark side of market research. They explore how market research can morph from a beneficial tool into a detrimental habit that fuels imposter syndrome, envy, and a tendency to mimic rather than innovate. They share personal experiences on how they've navigated these potential pitfalls, discussing the importance of trusting your own creative ideas and the risks of focusing too heavily on competitors. As always, they'll give you the inside scoop on real business insights and practical advice on maintaining your unique identity amidst the noise. So gr...
Double Your Audience: Social Media, Funnels, and Ads OH MY!
In today's episode, we're diving deep into strategic approaches to double your audience by next year. From kickstarting with goal-setting to examining the power of ads, we'll unravel how you can effectively scale your audience using free workshops, paid lead makers, and enticing creative ads. Whether you're just getting started or looking to give your audience growth a serious boost, we’ve got the strategies that’ll make your brand and offers discovered and loved. Tune in as we spill the secrets that took years of experience to perfect, designed to help you unleash the true power of the Gorgeous Effe...
Who's the BOSS: Copy VS. Design in Funnels
In today's episode of The Gorgeous Effect, your hosts Julie Chenell and Cathy Olson dive into the playful yet insightful debate of who's the REAL boss in the world of funnels: Copy or Design? With their expertise in funnel creation and marketing, Julie and Cathy unravel the dynamic duo of copywriting and design, explaining how these elements work hand-in-hand to create stunning and successful funnels. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, they'll explore why great design is essential for readability and engagement, yet equally emphasize that persuasive copy is the backbone of any sales page. Tune in as...
Offer Purgatory - Do You Keep Going?
Ever had an offer that sells just enough to keep it afloat but not nearly enough to thrive? Today, we're diving into the world of business purgatory. Julie and Cathy explore the concept of a purgatory offer, sharing their insights on recognizing and addressing these tricky situations. They discuss the importance of data-driven strategies, the role of positioning and messaging, and how to navigate the emotional and business challenges of an offer that's stuck in limbo. If your business feels like it's caught between success and stagnation, this episode will provide the clarity and strategies you need to break free...
When Life Gets Messy: Growing Your Business Through Personal Chaos
In this raw and real episode of "The Gorgeous Effect", Julie and Cathy talk about building your business through life's plot twists - from wedding plans to recovery rooms. Julie and Cathy are getting real about what it takes to keep your business thriving when life has other plans. Between Julie's recent wedding whirlwind and Cathy's upcoming surgery, they're diving into the messy reality of entrepreneurship and sharing how they've managed to build Funnel Gorgeous through some of their craziest seasons yet. From protecting your sacred morning hours to using your business as a positive distraction, they're breaking down their...
AI: Friend or Foe? A Wake-Up Call for Marketers
In the whirlwind of modern marketing, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a formidable force, promising to revolutionize industries and redefine how we connect with consumers. As Julie and Cathy discuss in the latest episode of "The Gorgeous Effect," AI is not just a fleeting trend—it's here to stay. Yet, as this technology continues to evolve, marketers face the dual challenge of keeping pace with rapid advancements and maintaining the human-centered approach that is the bedrock of effective marketing. Listen in as they discuss the upsides and challenges of using AI, the transformative impact it's having, and how to ha...
Fixing Profitability: Low Ticket and High Ticket Offers
Welcome back to another deep-dive episode of "The Gorgeous Effect"! Today, Julie and Cathy are diving headfirst into the hot topic of profitability in digital marketing. Ever wondered where you're leaving money on the table with your digital offers or how to get the best bang for your buck with low ticket funnels? Cathy is putting Julie on the hot seat to uncover the secrets behind maximizing profitability. They'll explore strategic pricing, the psychology of price breaks, and the crucial elements of offer optimization. Whether you're running low, mid, or high ticket offers, Julie shares invaluable insights that can make...