Expert In Demand Podcast With Dean Seddon

Ep 106: Should you sell an online course?

In this episode, we cut through the noise and take an honest look at the reality of selling online courses. Everyone's heard the alluring promise: create a course once, and make money while you sleep. But is it really that simple? We explore whether the dream of passive income through online courses is a realistic business model or just another myth.

I’ll share my personal journey – how back in 2012, I almost jumped into the online course game but held back due to self-doubt. Spoiler: I now see that I might have made a different decision knowing what I know today.

We’ll discuss the four key challenges every course creator faces: from generating traffic, managing costs, and breaking through saturated markets, to the often-overlooked issue of shockingly low course completion rates. Is selling an online course really the best way to grow your business, or could a high-ticket package offer more profitability and impact with fewer headaches?

Whether you're a business owner considering launching your first course or an entrepreneur looking to diversify your income streams, this episode will help you decide if selling an online course is the right move for your business—or if there’s a better option waiting for you.

Tune in for practical insights, hard truths, and strategies to make sure your next step is the most profitable one. If you're serious about scaling your business online, this is an episode you can't afford to miss.

Don't forget to subscribe—future episodes will cover more actionable strategies for building your business online, including expert insights on affiliate marketing, email list building, and more!

 

---------

➕ Hit subscribe so you never miss another episode.

✍️ Sign up for my weekly email newsletter: https://www.deanseddon.io/signal

✅️ Ready to act? DM me 🆆🅸🅽 on LinkedIn to get started.

---------

Ep 105: How to find hot prospects on LinkedIn

In this special episode, we bring you an edited version of a live audio event where I dive deep into one of the most critical strategies for LinkedIn success: finding hot prospects. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn LinkedIn into a lead-generating machine, this episode is for you.

During the live event, I revealed the secrets to identifying two key types of hot prospects on LinkedIn: intent-based and proximity-based. Intent-based prospects are already showing interest in services like yours—they’re the low-hanging fruit you can’t afford to miss. Meanwhile, proximity-based prospects are closer than you think—visiting your profile, engaging with your content, and just a message away from becoming your next client.

This isn’t just theory—it's a step-by-step breakdown of how I personally find these prospects week after week, with practical tips you can apply immediately. From using LinkedIn’s search tools to leveraging profile visits and commenting in active groups, you’ll learn how to carve out just 30-40 minutes each week to build a pipeline of hot leads without spamming or cold pitching.

We’ve edited the best moments of this live session into a podcast that’s packed with actionable insights, real-life examples, and a no-nonsense approach to LinkedIn lead generation. Plus, I share my thoughts on why finding these hot prospects should be a small, but consistent part of your overall LinkedIn strategy. If you’ve been posting endlessly and getting nowhere, this episode will show you how to flip the script.

Don’t miss out on this dynamic, hands-on session that could change the way you approach LinkedIn forever. 

 

---------

➕ Hit subscribe so you never miss another episode.

✍️ Sign up for my weekly email newsletter: https://www.deanseddon.io/signal

✅️ Ready to act? DM me 🆆🅸🅽 on LinkedIn to get started.

---------

Ep 104: How to deal with difficult clients

Are you dealing with clients who constantly push your boundaries, try to manipulate the situation, or drain your energy? In this episode, I dive deep into the realities of handling difficult clients—and how you can come out on top.

From recognizing subtle manipulation tactics to setting firm boundaries that protect your business and your sanity, this conversation is packed with raw, real-life experiences and actionable advice. I share some of my toughest client encounters, the mistakes I made, and the lessons learned.

If you're tired of bending over backwards for clients who don’t respect your expertise, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to take control, stand your ground, and build healthier, more profitable relationships.

Don't miss this no-nonsense guide to protecting your business and your peace of mind—subscribe now and get ready to level up your client game.

 

---------

➕ Hit subscribe so you never miss another episode.

✍️ Sign up for my weekly email newsletter: https://www.deanseddon.io/signal

✅️ Ready to act? DM me 🆆🅸🅽 on LinkedIn to get started.

---------

Ep 103: Grassroots to growth, starting out from scratch

In this episode, I sit down with someone very special—my wife, Louise. She’s typically behind the scenes, but today, she’s sharing her journey of navigating sales, marketing, and growing her own ventures. We dive into her experience with "The Shared Table," a community supper club that brought strangers together to cook and connect, as well as her role in driving growth for our print business.

Louise talks about the challenges of starting something from scratch, how she found her audience through grassroots marketing, and the power of building real relationships. She shares how tapping into local networks and being genuine with her audience helped her grow a loyal customer base organically.

This conversation isn’t just about business—it’s about creating something bigger than just profit. If you’re a business owner trying to figure out how to connect with your market, or if you’re looking for a more community-driven approach to success, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. Join us as we discuss why trust, longevity, and getting out into the real world are key to building a sustainable business.

And hey, if you want to hear more from Louise, let me know! If we get lots of comments and subscriptions, I’ll bring her back to talk about launching her nutrition business and all the ups and downs that come with it.

 

---------

➕ Hit subscribe so you never miss another episode.

✍️ Sign up for my weekly email newsletter: https://www.deanseddon.io/signal

✅️ Ready to act? DM me 🆆🅸🅽 on LinkedIn to get started.

---------

Ep 102: Beating up big tech to cut costs on software

Feeling like Big Tech's taking more than their fair share?

In this episode, we’re diving into how you can keep more of your hard-earned money by cutting down on those software costs. I know I spend too much on subscriptions, do you?

Join me and Alexander Golev, Founder of SamExpert, a software asset management company. As we chat about what’s really going on with your software spend. Are you paying for subscriptions you barely use? You’re not alone, and it’s time to put an end to it. Alexander spills the beans on how big businesses are wasting millions and shares how you can keep that cash in your business instead.

Think your procurement team’s got it all covered? Well, think again! Even the sharpest teams can get tangled up in Big Tech’s clever deals. We’ll chat about why going it alone isn’t always the best move and how Alexander’s strategies can help you negotiate like a pro. You’ll learn how to spot the tricks vendors use to drain your resources and, more importantly, how to turn the tables and get more bang for your buck.

We’ve got real stories of companies that slashed their software costs and turned those savings into growth.  Whether you’re tech-savvy or just trying to trim the fat, this episode’s packed with practical tips to help your bottom line.

 

---------

➕ Hit subscribe so you never miss another episode.

✍️ Sign up for my weekly email newsletter: https://www.deanseddon.io/signal

✅️ Ready to act? DM me 🆆🅸🅽 on LinkedIn to get started.

---------

Ep 101: Making your personal brand pay off

In this episode, we're getting real about what it takes to build a personal brand on LinkedIn that doesn’t just look impressive but also brings in the cash. If you think likes and comments are your ticket to success, think again. We’re diving into why all those numbers might not mean much if you’re not converting followers into clients.

You’ll hear stories about influencers who have massive engagement but struggle to make a penny—and learn how you can avoid their mistakes. We’ll break down why going beyond generic content is key and how injecting your unique perspective can make all the difference.

Discover the power of picking a niche and why focusing on a specific problem you solve can be your secret weapon. It might sound counter-intuitive, but narrowing your focus could open up a world of opportunities and make client acquisition a breeze.

We’ll also chat about the fear of missing out on opportunities when you specialise and how to overcome it. Get the lowdown on creating content that attracts attention, nurtures relationships, and seals the deal. Plus, learn the importance of showing up consistently and speaking your audience's language to build trust and credibility.

Whether you’re new to the game or looking to sharpen your strategy, this episode is packed with insights to help you stand out and make your LinkedIn presence truly pay off. Tune in to find out how to connect who you are with what you offer and solve the problems your audience cares about.

 

---------

➕ Hit subscribe so you never miss another episode.

✍️ Sign up for my weekly email newsletter: https://www.deanseddon.io/signal

✅️ Ready to act? DM me 🆆🅸🅽 on LinkedIn to get started.

---------

Ep 100: How to get your first 10 clients on LinkedIn

Struggling to find your first ten clients on LinkedIn? You’re not alone. Many solopreneurs and small business owners get stuck in a cycle of overcomplicating their approach, thinking they need a fancy website or a massive following to succeed. This can lead to frustration and burnout.

Imagine feeling confident in your ability to connect with the right people without endless hours wasted on ineffective strategies. The stress of not knowing where your next client will come from can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel defeated when you're bombarded with others’ seemingly effortless success stories on social media.

Join me on this special 100th episode where I break down a simple, effective strategy to help you land your first ten clients on LinkedIn. You’ll learn how to target the right audience, understand their pain points, and craft a compelling offer that speaks directly to their needs. Say goodbye to unnecessary complications and hello to a straightforward plan that works. Listen now and take the first step towards building a thriving client base!

Ep 99: Cut through the noise with personal branding

I'm thrilled to bring you this episode, where we cut through all the noise and get real about what personal branding truly means in 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the world of personal branding, this episode is packed with insights, truths, and practical advice that will transform how you think about your personal brand.

We’ve all seen it: the endless diagrams, the celebrity-like projections, and the constant pressure to put on a show. But let’s face it, personal branding has become a bit of a circus. People are tying themselves in knots trying to figure out what it means and how to make it work for them. That's why I’m here to demystify personal branding and give you the tools to create a brand that is genuinely you.

In this episode, we dive into the essence of personal branding. It’s not about pretending to be someone you’re not or chasing likes and follows. It’s about creating a character that reflects your true self—your expertise, your stories, and your unique perspective on the world. Think of it as crafting your very own Indiana Jones character, complete with your quirks, values, and backstory. You don’t need to reveal everything, just enough to connect with people and build trust.

Trust, my friends, is the currency of the future. In an era where everything is fakeable—followers, reviews, even success—building genuine trust through your personal brand is more critical than ever. It’s about being consistently present and authentic so people know who you are and what you stand for when they need your expertise.

We also explore the idea of typecasting yourself in your industry. Just like Liam Neeson found his niche with action-packed roles, you can find your sweet spot by focusing on solving one key problem for your audience. This doesn’t mean limiting yourself but rather creating a strong, memorable brand that people immediately associate with a particular need or expertise.

Building a personal brand isn’t about overnight success. It’s a journey, a compounding process that grows and evolves over time. I’ll share how you can document your progress, celebrate your milestones, and keep pushing forward even when it feels like you’re not making much headway. Remember, personal branding is about the long game.

Throughout this episode, we’ll discuss how to balance authenticity with professionalism, how to project the right image without losing yourself in the process, and how to stay consistent in a world where attention spans are shorter than ever.

So, if you’re ready to step up your personal branding game and create a brand that’s not just seen but truly felt, hit that play button. Let’s embark on this adventure together and unlock the power of personal branding.

And hey, if you find value in this episode, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with others who might benefit from a fresh take on personal branding. 

Ep 98: Making Learning Stick in a World of Forgetting

Join us in this eye-opening episode as we welcome Jeremy Campbell of Black Isle Group, an expert in learning and development, to dissect why most training programs are failing your business. Discover the startling truth behind why so much of what we learn is forgotten within days, and why traditional training methods might be doing more harm than good.

Ever wondered why the vast majority of online courses have a completion rate of just 6%? Or why employees return from workshops bursting with enthusiasm, only to slip back into old habits within weeks? Jeremy pulls back the curtain on these issues, revealing that the real challenge begins after the workshop ends. It’s not about ticking a box or having the best content; it’s about embedding that knowledge into daily practice.

In this candid conversation, Jeremy shares his journey from HR director to founder of Black Isle Group, driven by a passion to make learning truly impactful. Learn why behavioral change is so tough, how our brains are wired against it, and the small, incremental steps that can lead to lasting improvement. Jeremy also introduces the concept of 'nudges'—small actions that can significantly enhance retention and application of new skills.

Whether you’re an HR professional, a team leader, or someone passionate about personal development, this episode is packed with insights. Jeremy's experience and practical advice will help you transform training from a mere formality into a powerful tool for real change.

Ep 97: Opportunities are hiding in time-wasting activity

In this episode, I reflect on a transformative trip to the US, where stepping away from my daily routine allowed me to see things from a fresh perspective. I hope that by sharing my experiences, you too can find inspiration and seize the unexpected opportunities that lie around you.

Let’s set the stage. About ten days ago, there was a global IT glitch that disrupted planes, hotels, trains, and major businesses. This chaos was triggered by an error from the cybersecurity company Crowdstrike. I was at the airport during the meltdown, capturing the growing queues and posting the footage on TikTok and Twitter. Within hours, my videos went viral, garnering around 200,000 views on TikTok and 80,000 on Twitter. Suddenly, I was in high demand for TV interviews, reporting live for ITV, BBC, and Sky News. This frenzy showed me how hungry people are for real-time updates during global events.

From this unexpected burst of online fame, a company even wanted to buy the rights to my footage. It was a surreal experience, and as I jetted off to the US for a series of workshops, I couldn’t help but reflect on the vast sea of opportunities surrounding us daily. Often, we let the doom and gloom of news and social media convince us that opportunities are scarce, but in reality, they are abundant.

As a business owner, you might feel overwhelmed by the notion that there’s a lack of opportunities due to economic challenges. However, the truth is, there are countless opportunities at our fingertips. The key is to recognize and seize them. For instance, I've had scenarios where seemingly insignificant meetings turned into life-changing deals. One coffee meeting, which I almost skipped due to skepticism and past disappointments, led to a project pitch and eventually the biggest deal of my career. This experience taught me that opportunities don’t always come neatly packaged.

I've been active on social media for nearly 20 years, posting across various platforms. Recently, someone reached out to me for a meeting after seeing my Twitter posts. Initially, I was hesitant due to the long drive and my past encounters with time-wasters. However, I took the plunge, and although the initial meeting seemed fruitless, it eventually led to a significant project pitch. This was a stark reminder that we must remain open to possibilities, even if they don’t immediately seem promising.

One major takeaway from my travels and experiences is the importance of building relationships and personal branding. Being visible and nurturing connections can unlock opportunities that no business plan can predict. Often, we miss these chances because we are too focused on our to-do lists and productivity.

For instance, filming a TikTok video at the airport led to my footage being featured on major news outlets. This wasn’t planned or expected, but being in the right place at the right time and sharing my experience created a significant opportunity. It’s crucial to be present and aware, allowing room for these unplanned moments.

In summary, as solopreneurs or small business owners, it’s essential to invest time in building relationships and your personal brand. While not every interaction will lead to immediate success, these efforts create a foundation for significant opportunities down the line. Reflect on your approach: are you allowing space for relationship-building and personal branding, or are you too consumed by daily tasks? The unexpected opportunities are often disguised as time-wasters. By staying open and proactive, you can turn these moments into game-changing opportunities. So, take a step back, build those connections, and stay present in the moment – you never know what incredible opportunity might come your way next.