Our purpose at the Flourish Academy is to leave people better than we found them. We hope to inspire and motivate you to reframe your thinking in a way that serves you. Our hope is that you will reply with, "wow, I never thought of it that way."
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Welcome to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, the essential audio hub for portrait photographers eager to launch and elevate their businesses to achieve their ideal version of success. Hosted by Nicole Begley, a former zoological animal trainer turned accomplished family and then pet/equine photographer, this podcast is your go-to resource for transforming your photographic passion into a thriving business. Since making the leap into photography in 2010 and quickly scaling her business t ...
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255 - If you’ve been feeling the weight of a slow season or just need a little boost in your business (and mindset), this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast is for you. I’ve got Johl Dunn back on the podcast, and we’re diving deep into some game-changing strategies that can help you navigate tough times, overcome stress, and shift you…
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Podcast Ep 324 - The Power of Time Travel: Lessons from Your Future Self
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy Podcast, Nicole Begley sits down with Heather Lahtinen to explore the fascinating concept of time travel in business. They dive deep into how thinking about your future self can impact your current decisions, and how past experiences shape our present. Heather shares her personal journey from childhood habits…
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Inside the High School Senior Market with Dan Frievalt
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254 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, your host Nicole Begley dives into the exciting world of high school senior photography with special guest Dan Frievalt from Frievalt Photography. Whether you’re interested in photographing high school seniors or not - this episode is still full of applicable tips for ANY genre! Dan sh…
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Podcast Ep 323 - Sharing wisdom from other photographers
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In this episode, Heather Lahtinen shares valuable insights from experienced photographers and entrepreneurs about what to think and believe when starting something new. Whether you're a photographer or venturing into another field, the advice shared here will resonate with anyone embarking on a new journey. Discover how trusting yourself, managing …
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Portrait vs. Commercial Work with Kerry Jordan
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253 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, we welcome Kerry Jordan from Fur and Fables Photography. Kerry shares her incredible journey of pivoting from private client photography to a thriving commercial pet photography business. Discover the challenges and rewards Kerry faced during this transition and gain valuable insights …
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Podcast Ep 322 - How does it feel to be rejected?
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, Heather Lahtinen explores the idea of rejection and how it affects photographers trying to grow their businesses. As an experienced photographer, educator, and entrepreneur, Heather offers advice on handling rejection, why it's crucial for growth, and how to turn "no" into opportunities. Discover pra…
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252 - In this final installment of our travel hacking series, we're diving into the art of redeeming points. Now that you've accumulated a collection of points and miles, it's time to learn how to use them to unlock unforgettable travel experiences. From booking long-haul flights in business class to scoring luxury hotel stays for free, this episod…
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Podcast Ep 321 - Rediscover Your Worth: Insights from a 6-Year-Old
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, Heather Lahtinen talks about the unfiltered confidence and joy of a six-year-old's approach to life and business. She explores how we can rediscover our innate belief in ourselves to break through mental barriers and achieve greater success in both business and life. Tune in to learn how embracing a …
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251 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! In this second episode of our three-part series on travel hacking, we're diving into the exciting world of earning points. If you love to travel and dream of doing so for free or at a significantly reduced cost, this episode is a must-listen. I'll be sharing my tried-and-true methods for …
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Podcast Ep 320 - How to Price Your Photography: Lessons from my 16 Year Old Son
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Make sure you check out Pricing 101, our free course designed to help you get up and running as quickly as possible! Click here to learn more. Use this link for the "click here"https://flourishacademy.mykajabi.com/offers/sLNfKrrP In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, host Heather Lahtinen discusses the common challenge of setting prices …
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250 - Welcome to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! In this special episode, we're kicking off a three-part series dedicated to one of the most exciting and requested topics: travel hacking. If you've ever dreamed of traveling for free or at a fraction of the cost, you're in the right place. Today, we'll explore how to leverage credit card poin…
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Podcast Episode 319 - Running a Photography Business with Anxiety
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, host Heather Lahtinen and her friend Michelle Crandall talk about running a business while dealing with anxiety. Heather shares her experiences as a photographer and entrepreneur, while Michelle gives tips on managing anxious thoughts. They discuss how to reframe anxiety, understand cognitive distort…
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249 - In this episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, we’re jumping into our imaginary DeLorean and time traveling to share the ultimate 3-step success formula we wish we had known from the start! Join Heather and me as we reveal how making decisions, taking action, and trusting yourself can transform your photography business. We also sh…
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Podcast Ep 318 - Navigating Unexpected Challenges in Your Photography Business
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy Podcast, Heather Lahtinen discusses how to deal with unexpected and undesirable circumstances. As a photographer, educator, and entrepreneur, Heather shares her personal experiences with health challenges and provides actionable steps for managing your mindset during tough times. Tune in to learn how to stay …
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Pricing Review - Jumping from $1700 to $3800
29:58
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248 - In today's episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, I'm flexing my superpower – digging into a photographer's pricing and helping them make quick and easy changes that result in majorly elevated sales! Today, we're chatting with Michaela from BMac Photography in San Diego, who was running a very successful business with a $1,700 aver…
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Podcast Ep 317 - How photographers kicked me out of the tribe
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In this episode, Heather Lahtinen and Nicole Begley share their early struggles in their photography careers. Heather talks about being pushed out by other photographers, and Nicole shares a tough experience with a bank employee. Despite these hurdles, they both kept going and grew their photography businesses. Listen in to hear their tips on stayi…
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247 - In today's episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, we're diving into the art of raising your prices in your portrait photography business without losing your clients. Whether you're just starting out with a low-cost all-inclusive model or you're already seeing high sales and aiming to break into an even more luxurious market, we’ve …
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Podcast Ep 316 - What Overwhelm Really Is
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In this new episode of the Flourish Academy Podcast, host Heather Lahtinen talks about the concept of overwhelm that many photographers experience and how it affects our ability to achieve our goals and enjoy life. She shares actionable insights and mindset shifts to help photographers navigate their busy schedules and transform their feelings of o…
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246 - In today’s Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, join Nicole Begley as she chats with financial expert Mel Abraham to break down the ins and outs of financial planning for creatives. In this episode, Mel demystifies the process of building your own "money machine"—a system designed to cultivate financial independence and long-term security. This…
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Podcast Ep 315 - Are you bragging or celebrating?
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, host Heather Lahtinen shares her insightful perspective on the concept of bragging. Heather challenges traditional notions of boasting and encourages listeners to embrace celebrating success authentically. She tells stories and gives examples to help you understand the difference between being genuin…
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245 - Welcome back to the latest episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! Ever had one of those moments where you think, “Is this actually happening?”. I had one of those moments early in my photography business that I’ll never forget. Picture this: I'm standing in the bank, clutching my first check for $105 and change, ready to open my sh…
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Podcast Ep 314 - How our Phones are Killing our Creativity
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, Heather Lahtinen talks about the paradox of modern existence: our constant quest for happiness amidst the very distractions that make us miserable. Drawing from the insights of Dr. Anna Lembke's book "Dopamine: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence," Heather discusses the detrimental effects of di…
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244 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! I'm your host, Nicole Begley, and today we have a very special guest, Daniel Usenko, the creative force behind Pixellu, developers of my favorite album design software, Smart Albums. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting to explore the possibility of adding albums to your service…
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In this episode, I share my personal health journey, the decisions I've made regarding medication, and how I consciously steer my mindset to stay positive and productive. Whether you're dealing with your own health issues or just looking for ways to overcome life's obstacles, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Let's flourish tog…
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Gallery Wall Contests with Michaela Trujillo
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243 - Welcome to this exciting episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! Today, we're diving into a unique and impactful marketing strategy with our guest, Michaela Trujillo from BMAC Pet Photography in San Diego, CA. She’s masterfully combined art, community engagement, and philanthropy through her innovative Gallery Wall Contest - creatin…
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Podcast Ep 312 - When Awe Turns to Envy: Navigating Friendship and Comparison
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In this podcast, Heather Lahtinen and Nicole Begley talk about the often-overlooked issue of self-comparison and the impact it has on our confidence and success. Learn how two people, each admiring the confidence they see in the other, can make a phenomenal team by embracing their unique strengths. Whether you're a creative professional or navigati…
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242 - Welcome back to the latest episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! In this session, we dive deep into some intriguing personal revelations with Heather, who unexpectedly found herself discussing ME with her business coach! 😳 Talk about our mind jumping to conclusions! Imagine what I was thinking when I found this out! In this episod…
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Podcast Ep 311 - Unveiling Success: Beyond the Checklist
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, host Heather Lahtinen with her guest Michelle Crandall explore the common desire for a simple checklist to achieve success and the reality that success doesn't conform to a one-size-fits-all approach. They talk about the notion of following predetermined formulas and emphasize the importance of indiv…
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241 - Welcome to our final episode of The Offline Photographer! Throughout this series, we've explored the art of in-person marketing, empowering photographers to step away from screens and cultivate genuine, face-to-face connections in their local communities. By focusing on offline engagement, we've helped photographers find innovative ways to bu…
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In this episode, Heather and Nicole talk about how our thoughts affect what happens to us and how we can use them to succeed in our personal and work lives. Drawing from their own experiences and expertise, they discuss practical strategies for identifying and shifting limiting beliefs, cultivating a mindset aligned with goals, and embracing the co…
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240 - In today's episode, we're diving into the realm of marketing automation and its incredible benefits for photographers. Whether you're juggling multiple roles in your business or looking for effective ways to streamline your marketing efforts, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice. Joining us is special guest Dayna Schaaf, …
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Podcast Ep 309 - Money: Will it ever be enough?
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In this episode, Heather explores the concept of "enough" through real-life stories and reflections, challenging traditional notions of satisfaction and abundance. Discover how adopting a mindset of growth and impact can reshape your relationship with wealth and fulfillment. Show Notes: The concept of "enough" and its implications. Questioning the …
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10 Thoughts that Hold Photographers Back Part 3
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239 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! As emerging photographers, many of you might be grappling with the question: "Am I ready to start charging for my services?" It's a hurdle that every new photographer faces at some point. You might feel like your skills aren't polished enough or your portfolio isn't vast enough to justify…
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Podcast Ep 308 - Unshaken: Finding Yourself When Others Doubt
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Through personal anecdotes, insightful reflections, and practical advice, Heather talks about the path towards embracing authenticity and owning our unique identity. Whether we are navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship or seeking personal growth, this podcast offers valuable insights to help you cultivate confidence from within. Tune in to …
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10 Thoughts that Hold Photographers Back Part 2
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238 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast! In this episode, we're continuing our exploration of the common excuses photographers make that stall their progress. Heather Lahtinen joins us once again as we call BS on these all-too-familiar myths. Whether it’s the size of your audience, your personal skills in sales, or misconception…
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Podcast Ep 307 - Want to feel more confident? Here's the secret hack.
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In this episode, Heather Lahtinen from the Flourish Academy sits down with her business friend, Nicole Bagley, for a candid conversation about confidence. Heather shares a secret hack she's been using for years to generate confidence, challenging traditional notions and shedding light on a strategy that could change the game for anyone struggling w…
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10 Thoughts that Hold Photographers Back Part 1
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237 - Welcome back to the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of running a successful photography business! Today, Nicole Begley and our mostly-co-host, Heather Lahtinen, tackle the tricky terrain of photography pricing and those stubborn beliefs that just might be holding your business back. Ever whispered to yours…
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Podcast Ep 306 - This Question Will Change Your Life
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In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, host Heather Lahtinen talks about the transformative impact of the questions we ask ourselves. Drawing on personal experiences and insights from thought leaders like Tony Robbins, Heather explores how the quality of our questions determines the quality of our lives. Join us as we uncover the profound…
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236 - This episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Heather Lahtinen, delves into the "Offline Photographer Challenge" introduced in episode 219. The challenge is part of the Elevate program, designed to help photographers enhance their in-person marketing strategies by engaging with their local community. Heather invites Laura W…
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Podcast Ep 305 - How to Conquer Self-Sabotage
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Join Heather Lahtinen as she explores the patterns of self-sabotage that hinder progress and shares practical strategies for overcoming them. Drawing from personal experiences and client interactions, she sheds light on common pitfalls and offers insights to help listeners cultivate a resilient mindset. Tune in to discover how reframing negative th…
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235 - Heather Lahtinen has been a regular guest on the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, bringing her insights and experiences to our vibrant community of photographers. But today's episode unveils a side of Heather we've never seen before - a side that she used to keep hidden. In a candid and transformative conversation, Heather steps into the ho…
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Podcast Ep 304 - Business Values with Annemie Tonken
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In this episode, host Heather Lahtinen talks with Annemie Tonken, an experienced family photographer from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, about simplifying photography businesses. Annemie, with 14 years of experience, shares valuable insights into setting clear goals, establishing a framework for your business, and embracing entrepreneurship. We'll ex…
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Art, Lifestyle, or Love: What Drives Your Business?
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Welcome to another episode of the Creative Freedom Rebellion - a podcast series within the Freedom Focus Photography podcast, hosted by Nicole Begley and J. Nichole Smith, AKA Nic. Through the past 10+ years of mentoring pet photographers, we’ve noticed that the “why” of many pet photographers falls into one of three buckets. The love of art, the g…
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Podcast Ep 303 - Challenging Assumptions: Rewiring Your Mindset for Success
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In this episode, Heather explore how to navigate the hidden beliefs that may be holding us back, providing actionable insights to help us thrive on our unique journey. Join her as she challenge conventional thinking and discover new perspectives for growth and fulfillment. Show Notes: Underlying beliefs, the belief that it's possible to waste time.…
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233 - Today’s episode of the Freedom Focus Photography Podcast is an episode that will resonate with photographers across all specialties. In this enlightening conversation, I sit down with Karen Bartos, a boudoir photographer whose journey from landscape and high school senior photography to the intimate world of boudoir is a narrative of transfor…
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Podcast Ep 302 - Is it possible to waste time?
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In this episode, Heather delves into the concept of underlying beliefs inspired by Byron Katie's book, "Loving What Is." Listen as she reflects on her own experiences and struggles with impatience, revealing underlying beliefs that influence her mindset. She then shares her journey of questioning and reframing her beliefs to cultivate patience and …
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232 - Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Freedom Focus Photography podcast! This time, our host, Nicole Begley, sits down with the incredibly talented Korina Joseph, a pet photographer who has truly made waves in the industry. Korina's had her photography business for a few years, but since that virus which shall not be named her busin…
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Podcast Ep 301 - Why was this your best year yet?
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Heather recounts a unique coaching call centered around celebrating wins and projecting into the future. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking exercises, she demonstrates how envisioning your future successes can profoundly impact your present mindset and actions. Join her as she guides listeners through strategies to dream big, overcome…
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Fetching Multi-6 Figures with Ryan Erickson
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231 - Ryan Erickson takes us through his transformative journey from wedding photography to launching his mobile dog portrait studio, Fetch Photo Truck. The pandemic prompted him to reassess his career path and follow his true passion for dog photography – a move that has certainly paid off! Ryan dives into the ups and downs of managing a mobile bu…
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Podcast Ep 300 - How to Reduce Overwhelm with Michelle Crandall
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37:36
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Join Heather Lahtinen and her guest, Michelle Crandall, for an insightful conversation on overcoming overwhelm. They share personal experiences and practical strategies for managing overwhelm and shifting mindset to one of empowerment. Discover how to recognize the thoughts that contribute to overwhelm and learn actionable steps to conquer it and m…
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