In this episode, I’m talking with Deanna Seymour, a branding and content strategy expert. Although she’s not directly in the pet industry, I’m excited to feature experts from beyond the pet world who can provide us with valuable and actionable advice!

We discuss how to build a community without relying 100% on social media. If you’re not a fan of social media platforms or if you’re not seeing results (like new clients and revenue), there are other ways to foster community and grow your pet business.

For starters, Deanna has been organizing virtual networking events with co-hosts to connect with new people and establish community. She also sends out emails to her list every Thursday. In her weekly emails, Deanna follows a formula that involves starting with a personal story then tying it into her business.

When you listen to this episode, you’ll learn Deanna’s tips on generating your own stories and incorporating them into your business content strategy. One of her favorite ways to transition from storytelling to selling in email is with a fun GIF. They’re funny and establish a friendly relationship with your email list.

I initially met Deanna through her GIF making course. Use code WEARWAGREPEAT to GIF it Up for just $25!

How to Cultivate A Pet Lover Community Without Social Media

Deanna Seymour understands the power of creativity, fun, and community when it comes to building a sustainable business. She’s all about bold branding, lively design, and making less content, but doing it better.

With a mix of humor, empathy, and real talk, Deanna helps you feel more comfortable in your own skin so you can actually have fun with your content and connect with your perfect-fit clients.

When she’s not hosting a Pop-Up Networking Party or working with clients, she’s probably making GIFs, hangin’ with her fam, or sneaking in some Real Housewives!

OVERVIEW OF THIS EPISODE:

• Why social media isn’t the only way to build a community
• How various short form videos generate different types of engagement
• Telling relatable stories to write engaging emails
• Why your email list is often a more friendly audience
• How to turn everyday life events into strategic business lessons
• Using emails to stay “top of mind” instead of always hard selling
• Why you should be using personal custom Gifs

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

• Wear Wag Repeat Society
• Esther Perel: “I have a thousand friends, but not a single person to feed my cat.” On the Brené Brown Podcast
• ConvertKit

WHERE TO FIND DEANNA:

• Website: deannaseymour.com
• Instagram: @thedeannaseymour
• GIF It Up! Course (code WEARWAGREPEAT for half off!)